23
Now when he had left speaking these words, there came one of the Jews in the sight of all to sacrifice on the altar which was at Modin, according to the king's commandment.
24
Which thing when Mattathias saw, he was inflamed with zeal, and his reins trembled, neither could he forbear to shew his anger according to judgment: wherefore he ran, and slew him upon the altar.
25
Also the king's commissioner, who compelled men to sacrifice, he killed at that time, and the altar he pulled down.
26
Thus dealt he zealously for the law of God like as Phinees did unto Zambri the son of Salom.
27
And Mattathias cried throughout the city with a loud voice, saying, Whosoever is zealous of the law, and maintaineth the covenant, let him follow me.
The Brenton translation of the Septuagint is in the public domain.