So he summoned his most honored officers, who had been brought up with him from youth, and divided his kingdom among them while he was still alive.

Her sanctuary became desolate as a desert; her feasts were turned into mourning, her sabbaths into a reproach, her honor into contempt.

Her temple has become like a man without honor;

Then the king’s officers spoke to Mattathi′as as follows: “You are a leader, honored and great in this city, and supported by sons and brothers.

Now be the first to come and do what the king commands, as all the Gentiles and the men of Judah and those that are left in Jerusalem have done. Then you and your sons will be numbered among the friends of the king, and you and your sons will be honored with silver and gold and many gifts.”

“Remember the deeds of the fathers, which they did in their generations; and receive great honor and an everlasting name.

My children, be courageous and grow strong in the law, for by it you will gain honor.

he said, “I will make a name for myself and win honor in the kingdom. I will make war on Judas and his companions, who scorn the king’s command.”

The man Judas and his brothers were greatly honored in all Israel and among all the Gentiles, wherever their name was heard.

Nicanor in Judea

Then the king sent Nica′nor, one of his honored princes, who hated and detested Israel, and he commanded him to destroy the people.

But Judas said, “Far be it from us to do such a thing as to flee from them. If our time has come, let us die bravely for our brethren, and leave no cause to question our honor.”

And Deme′trius sent Jonathan a letter in peaceable words to honor him;

I also will write them words of encouragement and promise them honor and gifts, that I may have their help.”

And when his accusers saw the honor that was paid him, in accordance with the proclamation, and saw him clothed in purple, they all fled.

Thus the king honored him and enrolled him among his chief friends, and made him general and governor of the province.

When Alexander the king heard of these things, he honored Jonathan still more;

He confirmed him in the high priesthood and in as many other honors as he had formerly had, and made him to be regarded as one of his chief friends.

And Deme′trius sent this message to Jonathan, “Not only will I do these things for you and your nation, but I will confer great honor on you and your nation, if I find an opportunity.

Campaigns of Jonathan and Simon

Then Jonathan set forth and traveled beyond the river and among the cities, and all the army of Syria gathered to him as allies. When he came to As′kalon, the people of the city met him and paid him honor.

Oni′as welcomed the envoy with honor, and received the letter, which contained a clear declaration of alliance and friendship.

So he received him with honor and commended him to all his friends, and he gave him gifts and commanded his friends and his troops to obey him as they would himself.

Eulogy of Simon

The land had rest all the days of Simon. He sought the good of his nation; his rule was pleasing to them, as was the honor shown him, all his days.

To crown all his honors he took Joppa for a harbor, and opened a way to the isles of the sea.

The envoys who were sent to our people have told us about your glory and honor, and we rejoiced at their coming.

It has pleased our people to receive these men with honor and to put a copy of their words in the public archives, so that the people of the Spartans may have a record of them. And they have sent a copy of this to Simon the high priest.’”