54
In the one hundred and fifty-third year, in the second month, Alcimus gave orders to tear down the wall of the inner court of the sanctuary. He tore down the work of the prophets!
55
But he only began to tear it down, for at that time Alcimus was stricken and his work was hindered; his mouth was stopped and he was paralyzed, so that he could no longer say a word or give commands concerning his house.
56
And Alcimus died at that time in great agony.
57
When Bacchides saw that Alcimus was dead, he returned to the king, and the land of Judah had rest for two years.
58
Then all the lawless plotted and said, "See! Jonathan and his men are living in quiet and confidence. So now let us bring Bacchides back, and he will capture them all in one night."
59
And they went and consulted with him.
60
He started to come with a large force, and secretly sent letters to all his allies in Judea, telling them to seize Jonathan and his men; but they were unable to do it, because their plan became known.
61
And Jonathan's men seized about fifty of the men of the country who were leaders in this treachery, and killed them.
62
Then Jonathan with his men, and Simon, withdrew to Bethbasi in the wilderness; he rebuilt the parts of it that had been demolished, and they fortified it.
63
When Bacchides learned of this, he assembled all his forces, and sent orders to the men of Judea.
64
Then he came and encamped against Bethbasi; he fought against it for many days and made machines of war.