3 Maccabees 4:1-3

New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition

The Jews Deported to Alexandria

4 In every place, then, where this decree arrived, a feast at public expense was arranged for the nations with shouts and gladness, for the inveterate enmity that had long ago been in their minds was now made evident and outspoken.^{(A) 2} But among the Jews there was indescribable mourning, lamentation, and tearful cries and groans; everywhere their hearts were burning, and they groaned because of the unexpected destruction that had suddenly been decreed for them.^{(B) 3} What district or city, or what habitable place at all, or what streets were not filled with mourning and wailing for them?