1 Maccabees 3:59

59 For it is better for us to die in battle, than to behold the calamities of our people and our sanctuary.

1 Maccabees 3:59 In-Context

57 So the camp removed, and pitched upon the south side of Emmaus.
58 And Judas said, arm yourselves, and be valiant men, and see that ye be in readiness against the morning, that ye may fight with these nations, that are assembled together against us to destroy us and our sanctuary:
59 For it is better for us to die in battle, than to behold the calamities of our people and our sanctuary.
60 Nevertheless, as the will of God is in heaven, so let him do.
The King James Version is in the public domain.