18
When his pains didn't diminish in any way—for God's judgment had come upon him justly—and he had given up hope, he wrote to the Jews a letter of appeal. This was the content:
16
He would adorn the holy temple, which he had formerly looted, with the most beautiful offerings. He would restore the temple equipment many times over and would give liberally from his own revenues to the expenses for the sacrifices.
17
In addition, he would become a Jew and would visit every inhabited place, announcing publicly God's power.
18
When his pains didn't diminish in any way—for God's judgment had come upon him justly—and he had given up hope, he wrote to the Jews a letter of appeal. This was the content:
19
To the worthy Jewish citizens, from the king and governor Antiochus. Greetings and health and prosperity.
20
If you are in good health and your children and affairs are prospering, I give thanks to God with great joy, having hope in heaven,