| |
Angry
Antiochus.
We ended our last study in Daniel 11:31. Antiochus IV Epiphanes
had just attempted to defeat Ptolemy VI Philometor and Ptolemy
VII Eugeretes for making an alliance against him in 168 B.C.
But a Roman emissary turned Antiochus away. How did this evil
man react? He released his anger on the Jews - just like Adolf
Hilter.
Ancient
historians tell us that earlier in 174 B.C. Antiochus was already
trying to change Israel by encouraging them to accept Greek
culture and to stop worshipping their God. He had changed their
government from a God-centered government to a secular one.
He was encouraging them to dress as Greeks, adopt Greek culture
and exercise in the nude. This form of exercise was unique to
the Greeks. Some of the young priests joined in this form of
exercise and it made many of the Jews angry.
Now
it is 168 B.C. and like an angry child Antiochus releases his
anger on the Jews. He sends General Apollonius along with 22,000
soldiers into Jerusalem on a “peace mission.” But
they arrive on the Sabbath when the Jews are at rest. It is
a surprise attack. They kill many and take many as slaves. Antiochus
orders a pig to be sacrificed on the temple altar as part of
the Feast to Dionysus. The walls of the city are either destroyed
or partially damaged. Antiochus is not finished. |
|
