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The Period of Independence

Also called the Maccabean, or Asmonean, or Hasmonaean, period. Mattathias, a priest, of intense patriotism and unbounded courage, infuriated at the attempt of Antiochus Epiphanes to destroy the Jews and their religion, gathered a band of loyal Jews and raised the standard of revolt. He had five heroic and warlike sons; Judas, Jonathan, Simon, John and Eleazar. Mattathias died (166 s.c.). His mantle fell on his son Judas, a warrior of amazing military genius. He won battle after battle against unbelievable and impossible odds. He re-conquered Jerusalem (165 B.C.); and purified and re-dedicated the Temple. This was the origin of the Feast of Dedication. Judas united the priestly and civil authority in himself, and thus established the line of Asmonean priest-rulers who for the following 100 years governed an independent Judea. They were: Mattathias (167-166 B.c.). Judas (166161) . Jonathan (161-144) . Simon (144-135) . John Hyrcanus (135106) , son of Jonathan. Aristobulus and sons (160-63) , unworthy the Maccabean name.