He fled then to the wilderness, and many men with him,
with constant minds, and despised the wicked one.
Then sent the king soon after him
a great company to the vast mountains,
where they by troops went with their families.
Then was there slain a part of the folk,
that were at a distance from Mattathias,
because that they would not fight on the feast-day [sabbath],
but let them slay them with impunity.
The host then waxed exceedingly that was with Mattathias,
and they firmly fought, and put to flight the heathen,
with great strength, who were highminded against God.
Mattathias then went, with his kinsmen's help,
and chased the heathen, and altogether drove them away,
and reared up God's law, and God also helped them.
He then grew old, and his end approached,
and he taught his sons with faith, and quoth,
- Contend now manfully, now your need is great,
and proffer your own life for the true law,
and for our fathers' testimony; it shall come to your glory.
Be ye mindful now, my children,
how the great Abraham, in much temptation,
was true to God, and that was imputed to him for righteousness.
Also Joseph, and Jesus [Joshua] son of Naue [Nun],
David and Daniel, and all they who trusted in God,
were ever encouraged, for their trust in Him.
Be ye now heartened, and rejoice in God,
and hold with (true) service the holy law of God,
because that ye shall be glorified therein.
Fear ye not, I pray, the threats of the sinful one,
because his glory is corruption and muck;
