5
but waited for the right opportunity to accomplish his folly. Finally, Demetrius called him into the council to ask him about the condition of the Jews and their frame of mind. He replied,
3
A certain Alcimus, who had become high priest earlier but had willingly defiled himself during the revolt, became aware that he was no longer safe and that he would no longer have access to the holy altar.
4
He approached King Demetrius in the year 151, bringing him a gold crown, a palm tree, and some customary gifts of olive branches from the temple. He kept quiet that day
5
but waited for the right opportunity to accomplish his folly. Finally, Demetrius called him into the council to ask him about the condition of the Jews and their frame of mind. He replied,
6
"The Jews called Hasideans, whose leader is Judas the Maccabee, maintain a warlike policy and rebel frequently, not permitting the kingdom to have peace.
7
Deprived of my ancestral glory—I speak of course of the high priesthood—I have now come here,