1
Now Simon heard that Tryphon was gathering together a very great army, to invade the land of Juda, and to destroy it.
2
And seeing that the people was in dread, and in fear, he went up to Jerusalem, and assembled the people:
3
And exhorted them, saying: You know what great battles I and my brethren, and the house of my father, have fought for the laws, and the sanctuary, and the distresses that we have seen:
4
By reason whereof all my brethren have lost their lives for Israel's sake, and I am left alone.
5
And now far be it from me to spare my life in any time of trouble: for I am not better than my brethren.
6
I will avenge then my nation and the sanctuary, and our children, and wives: for all the heathens are gathered together to destroy us out of mere malice.
7
And the spirit of the people was enkindled as soon as they heard these words.