41
So they made this decision that day: "Let us fight against anyone who comes to attack us on the sabbath day; let us not all die as our kindred died in their hiding places."
42
Then there united with them a company of Hasideans, mighty warriors of Israel, all who offered themselves willingly for the law.
43
And all who became fugitives to escape their troubles joined them and reinforced them.
44
They organized an army, and struck down sinners in their anger and renegades in their wrath; the survivors fled to the Gentiles for safety.
45
And Mattathias and his friends went around and tore down the altars;
New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.