1 MaccabeesChapter 8

1 Maccabees Chapter 8: Meaning

Judas hears how powerful Rome is and sends men there to make a friendship agreement.

Summary

Judas had heard a lot about Rome. The Romans were famous warriors who had defeated kings and kingdoms all over the world. They conquered places like Spain, Greece, and the land of the Galatians. Even the great king Antiochus the Great had been crushed by them. Judas was impressed that the Romans treated their friends well and stood by their allies.

What made Rome even more interesting was how it was run. Instead of one king wearing a crown and purple robes, they had a council of 320 men who made decisions together. Each year one person was chosen to lead. There was no jealousy or fighting over power, at least that is how Judas had heard it. This seemed wise and fair to him.

Judas decided to send two men, Eupolemus and Jason, on a very long journey to Rome. Their mission was to make a peace and friendship treaty with the Romans. The goal was to get the Greeks off Israel's back. If Rome stood with Israel, maybe the Seleucid Empire would leave them alone.

The Roman Senate welcomed Judas's ambassadors and agreed to the treaty. The agreement was written on bronze tablets. It said that if either Israel or Rome was attacked, the other would help. It also said Rome had written a letter to King Demetrius demanding he stop oppressing Israel. It was a bold move by Judas, he was trying to protect his people using smart diplomacy as well as fighting.

Historical Context

This chapter takes place around 161 BC. At this time Rome was the rising superpower of the Mediterranean world. The Jewish leaders knew they could not keep fighting the Seleucid Empire alone forever. Making an alliance with Rome was a smart move, Rome had already humbled the Seleucid king Antiochus the Great years earlier.

This chapter gives a glowing description of Rome that reflects the hopeful view Judas had of them. In reality, Rome would eventually become a problem for Israel too. But at this point in history, an alliance with Rome offered real protection. The treaty written on bronze was a sign of its seriousness and permanence.