1 Maccabees 2:42-48

Counterattack

42 At that time a company of Hasideans, mighty warriors of Israel, united with them. They offered their lives willingly for the Law.

43 Others who became fugitives to escape their troubles joined them as well and reinforced them.

44 Together they organized an army. In their fury, they struck down sinners and renegades. Survivors fled to the Gentiles for safety.

45 Mattathias and his friends went around tearing down the altars to other gods.

46 They forcibly circumcised boys whom they found uncircumcised within the borders of Israel.

47 They hunted down arrogant people, and their missions were successful.

48 They rescued the Law from the power of the Gentiles and kings, and they never let the sinner regain power.

Footnotes

• [a]. Or the pious ones
• [b]. Gk lacks to other gods.