1
The greatest of his brothers and the pride of his people was the High Priest Simon son of Onias, who repaired the Temple
2
and laid the foundation for the high double wall and the fortifications of the Temple.
3
The reservoir, as big as the bronze tank, was dug while he was in office.
4
He made plans to protect his people from attack and fortified the city so that it could withstand a siege.
5
How glorious he was when he came out of the Most Holy Place!
6
He was like the morning star shining through the clouds, like the full moon,
7
like the sun shining on the Temple of the Most High, like the rainbow gleaming in glory against the clouds,
8
like roses in springtime, like lilies beside a stream, like the cedars of Lebanon in summer,
9
like burning incense, like a cup made of hammered gold and decorated with all kinds of jewels,