12
This proposal pleased them,
13
and some of the people eagerly went to the king. He authorized them to observe the ordinances of the Gentiles.
14
So they built a gymnasium in Jerusalem, according to Gentile custom,
15
and removed the marks of circumcision, and abandoned the holy covenant. They joined with the Gentiles and sold themselves to do evil.
16
When Antiochus saw that his kingdom was established, he determined to become king of the land of Egypt, that he might reign over both kingdoms.
17
So he invaded Egypt with a strong force, with chariots and elephants and cavalry and with a large fleet.
18
He engaged Ptolemy king of Egypt in battle, and Ptolemy turned and fled before him, and many were wounded and fell.
19
And they captured the fortified cities in the land of Egypt, and he plundered the land of Egypt.
20
After subduing Egypt, Antiochus returned in the one hundred and forty-third year. He went up against Israel and came to Jerusalem with a strong force.
21
He arrogantly entered the sanctuary and took the golden altar, the lampstand for the light, and all its utensils.
22
He took also the table for the bread of the Presence, the cups for drink offerings, the bowls, the golden censers, the curtain, the crowns, and the gold decoration on the front of the temple; he stripped it all off.