13
At this point, Seron the commander of the Syrian army heard that Judas had gathered a large company, including a group of faithful soldiers who stayed with him and went out to battle.
14
He said, "I will make a name for myself and win honor in the kingdom. I will make war on Judas and his companions who reject the king's command."
15
Once more, a strong army of godless men went up with Seron to help him take vengeance on the Israelites.
16
When he approached the ascent to go up to Beth-horon, Judas went out to meet him with a small group.
17
When they saw Seron's army that was coming against them, they said to Judas, "How can we, who are so few, fight against so large and strong a multitude? What's more, we feel faint because we haven't eaten today."