Eulogy of Simon
4 The land of Judah enjoyed peace all the days of Simon. He sought what was good for his nation. His rule was agreeable to them, as was the honor shown him all his days.
5
His crowning achievement was to take Joppa for a harbor, opening the way to the sea with its islands.
6
He also extended his country's borders. He gained full control of the land;
7
he took a great number of captives. He ruled over Gazara, Beth-zur, and the elevated fortress. He removed the impurities from the elevated fortress. There were none to oppose him.
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People worked their farmland in peace. The ground was fertile, and the trees of the plains were fruitful.
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Old men sat along the sides of the streets and talked about good things. The young put on impressive military uniforms.
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Simon supplied the towns with food and with the means for defense. His fame spread to the ends of the earth.
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He established peace throughout the land, and Israel had great joy.
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All the people sat under their own vines and fig trees. No one made them afraid.
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No one was left in the land to fight them, because foreign kings had been crushed in those days.
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He gave help to all the humble ones among his people. He sought lawful ways. He did away with evil people and those who sinned against the Law.
15
He made the sanctuary glorious, and added to its holy equipment.