1 Maccabees 1:16-24

Common English Bible

Antiochus in Egypt

¹⁶ When Antiochus felt that his own kingdom was fully established, he determined also to take control of the land of Egypt so that he could rule over both kingdoms. ¹⁷ He invaded Egypt with a very strong force, including soldiers in chariots and on elephants, as well as cavalry and a large fleet. ¹⁸ When Antiochus met the Egyptian king Ptolemy in battle, Ptolemy and his forces hastily retreated. Many were wounded and killed. ¹⁹ Antiochus and his forces were able to capture the fortified cities in Egypt and plunder the land.

Oppression of the Jews

²⁰ After he conquered Egypt, Antiochus returned in the year 143.^[a] He went up to Israel and entered Jerusalem with a strong force. ²¹ With arrogance he went into the sanctuary. He took the gold altar, the lampstand for the light, and all its equipment. ²² He also took the table that was used for the sacred bread, drink-offering cups, bowls, gold censers, a curtain, crowns, and the gold decoration on the front of the temple. He stripped it all. ²³ He took silver, gold, and costly equipment. He took every hidden treasure he could find. ²⁴ Taking it all, he went back to his own land. He committed murder and spoke very arrogantly.