2
He also sent letters to the same effect to the Spartans and to other places.
3
So they went to Rome and entered the senate chamber and said, "The high priest Jonathan and the Jewish nation have sent us to renew the former friendship and alliance with them."
4
And the Romans gave them letters to the people in every place, asking them to provide for the envoys safe conduct to the land of Judah.
5
This is a copy of the letter that Jonathan wrote to the Spartans:
6
"The high priest Jonathan, the senate of the nation, the priests, and the rest of the Jewish people to their brothers the Spartans, greetings.
7
Already in time past a letter was sent to the high priest Onias from Arius, who was king among you, stating that you are our brothers, as the appended copy shows.
8
Onias welcomed the envoy with honor, and received the letter, which contained a clear declaration of alliance and friendship.
9
Therefore, though we have no need of these things, since we have as encouragement the holy books that are in our hands,
10
we have undertaken to send to renew our family ties and friendship with you, so that we may not become estranged from you, for considerable time has passed since you sent your letter to us.
11
We therefore remember you constantly on every occasion, both at our festivals and on other appropriate days, at the sacrifices that we offer and in our prayers, as it is right and proper to remember brothers.
12
And we rejoice in your glory.