35
When Jonathan returned, he called the council of the leaders together and made plans with them to build fortresses in Judea,
36
to increase the height of the walls of Jerusalem, and to build a high wall to separate the fort from the city. This would isolate the fort, making it impossible for the enemy to buy or sell anything.
37
The people worked together to strengthen the city's defenses because a part of the east wall along the Kidron Valley had collapsed and the Chaphenatha section was in need of repair.
38
Simon also rebuilt the town of Adida in the foothills. He fortified it and constructed barred gates for it.
39
Then Trypho plotted a rebellion against King Antiochus so that he could make himself king of Syria.
40
He was afraid, however, that Jonathan would not agree to this and would go to war against him to prevent it. So Trypho got his army ready and went to Beth Shan in the hope of capturing Jonathan and putting him to death.
41
But Jonathan also came to Beth Shan with 40,000 well-trained soldiers.
42
When Trypho saw how large an army Jonathan had brought with him, he was afraid to take action.
43
So he received Jonathan with all honors, presented him to all his advisers, gave him gifts, and ordered his advisers and soldiers to obey Jonathan as they would him.
44
He asked Jonathan, "Why have you put these soldiers to so much trouble when we are not at war?
45
Why don't you send them home? Choose a few men to stay with you, and then accompany me to Ptolemais. I will hand the city over to you, as well as the rest of the fortresses, the troops, and all the officials. Then I will turn around and leave. In fact, that's why I am here."