2
All his brothers and all the loyal followers of his father gave him their support, and they were happy to carry on Israel's war.
3
Judas brought greater glory to his people. In his armor, he was like a giant. He took up his weapons and went to war; with his own sword he defended his camp.
4
He was like a ferocious lion roaring as it attacks.
5
Judas hunted down those who broke the Law and set fire to all who oppressed his people.
6
In fear of him, lawless men huddled together in terror, not knowing which way to turn. He advanced the cause of freedom by what he did.
7
He made life miserable for many kings, but brought joy to the people of Israel. We will praise him forever for what he did.
8
He went through the towns of Judea and destroyed all the godless men. He relieved Israel of its terrible suffering.
9
His fame spread to the ends of the earth, as he gathered together those who were threatened with death.
10
Then Apollonius assembled a Gentile army, including a large force from Samaria, to attack the people of Israel.
11
When Judas learned of this, he marched out to battle, defeated the army, and killed Apollonius. Many Gentiles lost their lives, and the rest fled.
12
When the spoils of war were collected, Judas took the sword of Apollonius and used it in battle until the day he died.