17
and in addition to all this he also would become a Jew and would visit every inhabited place to proclaim the power of God.
18
But when his sufferings did not in any way abate, for the judgment of God had justly come upon him, he gave up all hope for himself and wrote to the Jews the following letter, in the form of a supplication. This was its content:
19
"To his worthy Jewish citizens, Antiochus their king and general sends hearty greetings and good wishes for their health and prosperity.
20
If you and your children are well and your affairs are as you wish, I am glad. As my hope is in heaven,
21
I remember with affection your esteem and good will. On my way back from the region of Persia I suffered an annoying illness, and I have deemed it necessary to take thought for the general security of all.
22
I do not despair of my condition, for I have good hope of recovering from my illness,
23
but I observed that my father, on the occasions when he made expeditions into the upper country, appointed his successor,
24
so that, if anything unexpected happened or any unwelcome news came, the people throughout the realm would not be troubled, for they would know to whom the government was left.
25
Moreover, I understand how the princes along the borders and the neighbors to my kingdom keep watching for opportunities and waiting to see what will happen. So I have appointed my son Antiochus to be king, whom I have often entrusted and commended to most of you when I hastened off to the upper provinces; and I have written to him what is written here.
26
I therefore urge and beseech you to remember the public and private services rendered to you and to maintain your present good will, each of you, toward me and my son.
27
For I am sure that he will follow my policy and will treat you with moderation and kindness."