Session 26: The Maccabean Revolt
- Teresa
- Aug 2, 2019
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 5, 2020
1 Maccabees*
After the Jews returned to Jerusalem, they lived in relative peace for about a century under the Persians, who allowed them to practice their faith. In 336 BC, Alexander the Great conquered Persia, and the Greeks came into power. When Alexander died, his empire was divided among his three generals, and a leader named Antiochus Epiphanes ruled over Jerusalem. Antiochus was very cruel and persecuted the Jews. The Jews had to stop all their practices such as keeping the Sabbath holy, eating Kosher food and praying to God. Instead, they were expected to pray to the Greek idols. Some Jews abandoned God and started practicing the Greek religion. However, there were other Jews which fought back and strove to stay loyal to God even though it meant that it would get them in trouble and cost them their lives.
One of these Jews who fought back was Mattathias, who was a holy priest. He led a rebellion and was joined by his son, Judah Maccabee, Jonathan and Simon. When Mattathias died, his son Judah led an army and recaptured Jerusalem, driving out the Greeks. The Jews mark this victory through the festival of Hanukkah, also known as the Feast of Dedication.
Video: The Maccabean revolt and story of Hanukkah
Source: Jewish Apps on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-mM_p0SlXE
Can you imagine what it must have been like, not to be able to practice your faith?
In today's world, are there instances where we are discouraged from practicing our faith, or showing our love for God? What can we do in such situations?
The Maccabean revolt lasted for seven years. It showed us how those who were committed to following God were able to fight back against their enemies who oppressed them. God gave them the courage to stand up and defend their faith. After Judah died, his brother Simon took over his leadership and established the Hasmonean dynasty.
The Hasmonean dynasty did not last long however. The Roman Empire conquered Jerusalem in 63 BC. The Romans installed King Herod the Great as the ruler of Judea. The stage was now set for Jesus, the King of Kings, to come into the world.
* The books of Maccabees is found in the Catholic Bible but not the Protestant Bible.
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