15
In the meanwhile the king's officers, such as compelled the people to revolt, came into the city of Modin to make them sacrifice.
16
And when many of Israel came unto them, Mattathias also and his sons came together.
17
Then answered the king's officers, and said to Mattathias in this manner: "Thou art a ruler, and an honorable and great man in this city, and strengthened with sons and brethren.
18
Now therefore come thou first and fulfill the king's commandment, as all the heathen have done, yea, and the men of Judah also and such as remain at Jerusalem. So shalt thou and thy house be in the number of the king's friends, and thou and thy children shall be honored with silver and gold and many rewards."
19
Then Mattathias answered and spoke with a loud voice: "Though all the nations that are under the king's dominion obey him, and fall away every one from the religion of their fathers, and give consent to his commandments,