23
Now when he had left off speaking these words, there came one of the Jews in the sight of all to sacrifice on the altar which was at Modin, according to the king's commandment.
24
When Mattathias saw this, he was inflamed with zeal and his reins trembled, neither could he forbear to show his anger according to judgment. Therefore he ran and slew him upon the altar.
25
Also the king's commissioner, who compelled men to sacrifice, he killed at that time, and the altar he pulled down.
26
Thus dealt he zealously for the law of God as Phinehas did unto Zimri the son of Salu.
27
And Mattathias cried throughout the city with a loud voice, saying, "Whosoever is zealous for the law and maintaineth the covenant, let him follow me!"
Third Millennium Bible (TMB), New Authorized Version, Copyright 1998 by Deuel Enterprises, Inc., Gary, SD 57237. All rights reserved.