3
"Since I am devoted to the king's interests, I have come here to report that tens of thousands of talents in private funds have been deposited in the temple treasuries. These funds are not temple property but belong to King Seleucus."
1
A man named Simon was a political opponent of Onias, who held the office of high priest for life. Onias was an honorable and good man. Simon was unable to injure Onias, even though he falsely accused him of all kinds of crimes, pretending to act on the nation's behalf. He went into exile and planned to betray his nation.
2
So Simon came to Apollonius, the governor of Syria, Phoenicia, and Cilicia, and said,
3
"Since I am devoted to the king's interests, I have come here to report that tens of thousands of talents in private funds have been deposited in the temple treasuries. These funds are not temple property but belong to King Seleucus."
4
When Apollonius learned these things, he praised Simon for watching out for the king. Then Apollonius went to Seleucus to tell him about the stash of treasure.
5
When Apollonius received authority to take action, he quickly advanced into our nation, bringing along the villain Simon and heavily armed troops.