1 Maccabees

About this text

A historical account of the Maccabean revolt (167–134 BC) against the Seleucid Empire. Describes the rededication of the Temple — the origin of Hanukkah.

Significance

The primary historical source for the events behind Hanukkah, which Jesus himself celebrated (John 10:22).

Key excerpts

"Then said Mattathias: Though all the nations that are under the king's dominion obey him, yet will I and my sons walk in the covenant of our fathers."

"And they decorated the front of the temple with golden crowns and small shields; they restored the gates and the chambers."

Scripture cross-references

• John 10:22 — Jesus at the Feast of Dedication (Hanukkah) — established by the events in 1 Maccabees
• Daniel 11:31-32 — Daniel prophesies the abomination — 1 Maccabees records its fulfillment

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This text is one of 10 in the Apocrypha / Deuterocanonical Books category, and one of 62 across the entire library.