2 Maccabees 13:13-15

Common English Bible

¹³ In consultation with the elders, Judas decided to march out to determine the matter by God’s help before the army of the king could enter Judah and take control of the city. ¹⁴ He left the decision to the creator of the universe and called on his men to fight to the death for the laws, temple, city, country, and citizenship. He made the region of Modein his headquarters ¹⁵ and gave his men the watchword “God’s Victory.” He chose the best of the young men, and attacked the king’s quarters in the enemy camp at night. They killed nearly two thousand men as well as the lead elephant, stabbing its rider.