5
But he found an opportunity that furthered his mad purpose when he was invited by Demetrius to a meeting of the council and was asked about the disposition and intentions of the Jews. He answered:
6
"Those of the Jews who are called Hasideans, whose leader is Judas Maccabeus, are keeping up war and stirring up sedition, and will not let the kingdom attain tranquillity.
7
Therefore I have laid aside my ancestral glory -- I mean the high priesthood -- and have now come here,
8
first because I am genuinely concerned for the interests of the king, and second because I have regard also for my fellow citizens. For through the folly of those whom I have mentioned our whole nation is now in no small misfortune.
9
Since you are acquainted, O king, with the details of this matter, deign to take thought for our country and our hard-pressed nation with the gracious kindness which you show to all.
10
For as long as Judas lives, it is impossible for the government to find peace."
11
When he had said this, the rest of the king's friends, who were hostile to Judas, quickly inflamed Demetrius still more.
12
And he immediately chose Nicanor, who had been in command of the elephants, appointed him governor of Judea, and sent him off
13
with orders to kill Judas and scatter his men, and to set up Alcimus as high priest of the greatest temple.
14
And the Gentiles throughout Judea, who had fled before Judas, flocked to join Nicanor, thinking that the misfortunes and calamities of the Jews would mean prosperity for themselves.
15
When the Jews heard of Nicanor's coming and the gathering of the Gentiles, they sprinkled dust upon their heads and prayed to him who established his own people for ever and always upholds his own heritage by manifesting himself.