Simon Maccabeus

When Simon succeeded Jonathan, he acquired the status of a recognized secular ruler. The year he assumed rule was regarded as the first of a new era, and official documents were dated in his name and by his regnal year. He secured from the new Seleucid…

…Book of Maccabees relates that Simon Maccabeus, who finally secured political independence for Judaea in 142 bce, was chosen as “leader and high priest forever, until a trustworthy prophet should arise.” The same notion of a prophet soon to appear is expressed in chapter 1 of First Maccabees . The…

…was succeeded by his brother Simon, a man of character and prudence as well as a born leader who had quietly and loyally served under his other brothers. On his own initiative Simon brought peace and security to Jerusalem. He was the second Hasmonean high priest. In 135/134 bce he…