74
When Jonathan heard Apollonius' words, a fire was lit under him. He chose ten thousand men and set out from Jerusalem. His brother Simon met him to assist.
75
He camped in front of Joppa. But the people of the city closed its gates because Apollonius had a defense force there. So they fought against it.
76
And the people of the city became frightened and opened the gates. So Jonathan gained possession of Joppa.
77
When Apollonius heard the news, he assembled three thousand cavalry and a large army. He went to Azotus and acted as if he were going farther. At the same time, he advanced into the plain, because he had a large troop of cavalry and had confidence in it.
78
Jonathan pursued him to Azotus, and their armies engaged in battle.