2 Maccabees 11:25-27

New Revised Standard Version, Anglicised Catholic Edition

²⁵ Accordingly, since we choose that this nation also should be free from disturbance, our decision is that their temple be restored to them and that they shall live according to the customs of their ancestors. ²⁶ You will do well, therefore, to send word to them and give them pledges of friendship, so that they may know our policy and be of good cheer and go on happily in the conduct of their own affairs.’

²⁷ To the nation the king’s letter was as follows:

‘King Antiochus to the senate of the Jews and to the other Jews, greetings.