1 Maccabees 3:42-44

Common English Bible

⁴² Judas and his brothers saw that the situation was becoming increasingly difficult, as the military forces were encamped in their territory. They learned also that the king had commanded their complete destruction. ⁴³ But they spoke to each other, “Let’s restore our people after all they’ve suffered, and fight for our people and the sanctuary.” ⁴⁴ So the congregation gathered to prepare for battle, and to pray and ask for mercy and compassion.