DO NOW: HOW DO PREPARE FOR THE EASTER CELEBRATION? Chapter 18 ~ Lesson 2

Concept: Who were the Maccabees? Questions: 1. What was the difference between the Hellenists and the Hasidim? 2. Why was Hanukkah called “the feast of lights”?

Chapter 18 ~ Lesson 2 Judah was under Syrian-Mesopotamian rule, but none of the religious or political arrangements changed. The Jews continued to live as they had under the Persians. The Roman empire was threatening to take over the land. The king of Syria required that everyone accept the Greek culture and Religion. The Jews were split on this policy. The Hellenists – accepted the Greek culture, and called the Greek Party. The Hasidim – did not accept the Greek culture and became the Pious Party. The king persecuted the Hasidim and captured Jerusalem.

Chapter 18 ~ Lesson 2 Books of Maccabees – Mattathias and Judas led the revolt against the Hellenists. The Hasidim joined Judas. Judas recaptured Jerusalem and cleansed the Temple. The Temple menorah, or lamp stand was lit again. Judas asked the people to remember this event with a festival. This became known as ‘the festival of lights” because the oil supply of the menorah lasted 8 days. This was the beginning of the festival of Hanukkah, which Jews still celebrate today. After Judas and his brother Jonathan died, their brother Simon took place as leader. He won independence for Judah and became the first King since 587 B.C.