1
Now when Simon heard that Trypho had gathered together a great host to invade the land of Judea and destroy it,
2
and saw that the people were in great trembling and fear, he went up to Jerusalem and gathered the people together,
3
and gave them exhortation, saying, Ye yourselves know what great things I and my brethren and my father's house have done for the laws and the sanctuary, the battles also and troubles which we have seen.
4
By reason thereof all my brethren are slain for Israel's sake, and I am left alone.
5
Now therefore be it far from me that I should spare mine own life in any time of trouble, for I am no better than my brethren.
6
Doubtless I will avenge my nation and the sanctuary and our wives and our children, for all the heathen are gathered to destroy us out of veritable malice.
7
Now as soon as the people heard these words, their spirit revived.
8
And they answered with a loud voice, saying, Thou shalt be our leader in the stead of Judas and Jonathan thy brother.