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,
21
remembering with affection your honor and goodwill. After returning from Persia and falling ill, which created a serious situation, I regarded it as necessary to think of the common safety of all the people.