Defending the Faith: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on Mattathias’s Revolt in 1 Maccabees 2

Executive Summary

1 Maccabees 2 recounts the courageous stand of Mattathias and his sons against the encroaching Hellenistic practices that threatened to extinguish the Jewish faith. This chapter marks the beginning of the Maccabean Revolt, a pivotal moment in Jewish history. Mattathias, a priest of the family of Joarib, vehemently refuses to comply with Antiochus IV Epiphanes’ decrees to abandon the Law of Moses and embrace idolatry. His act of killing both a Jew offering pagan sacrifice and a government official enforcing the decree ignites a rebellion that ultimately leads to Jewish independence and the rededication of the Temple. Through Mattathias’s unwavering commitment and righteous anger, we learn the importance of defending our faith against external pressures and remaining steadfast in our devotion to God. This chapter resonates deeply within Coptic Orthodox tradition, reminding us of the continuous struggle to uphold our ancestral faith against secular and heretical influences. His story encourages us to remain vigilant, to uphold truth, and to resist compromise when our faith is challenged. Let’s examine how this timeless message applies to us today.

Introduction: 1 Maccabees 2 details a critical moment in salvation history, providing profound lessons for the Coptic Orthodox believer today. It is more than a historical narrative; it is a testament to unwavering faith and resistance against spiritual oppression. Mattathias’s revolt, born from righteous indignation, underscores the vital importance of defending our faith, even at personal cost.

Commentary: 1 Maccabees 2

1 Maccabees 2:1-2

1 In those days Mattathias the son of John, the son of Simeon, a priest of the sons of Joarib, removed from Jerusalem, and dwelt in Modin. 2 And he had five sons, Joannan, and Simon who was called Thassi, and Judas who was called Maccabeus, 3 And Eleazar who was called Avaran, and Jonathan who was called Apphus: all these were priests. (KJV)

Mattathias, a priest of the lineage of Joarib (1 Chronicles 24:7), withdraws to Modin, a town northwest of Jerusalem. This withdrawal is not an act of cowardice but a strategic relocation to maintain religious purity and resist the Hellenistic influences pervading Jerusalem. His five sons, destined to become key figures in the revolt, are introduced. The names reflect their roles, with Judas earning the epithet “Maccabeus” (the Hammer). The priesthood itself, an office passed down through generations, carried immense significance in the Old Testament and this lineage demonstrates his strong ties to the Orthodox faith.

Spiritual Application: Like Mattathias, we may need to create spiritual distance from environments that compromise our faith. Sometimes, maintaining our devotion requires moving to a safer spiritual space – perhaps changing social circles or limiting exposure to certain media. We see this in the lives of the desert fathers, who went to extreme environments for their spiritual growth.

1 Maccabees 2:15-18

15 Now when the king’s officers, who compelled the people to revolt, were come to Modin, 16 They came to Mattathias, and said unto him, Thou art a ruler, and an honourable and great man in this city, and adorned with sons and brethren: 17 Now therefore come thou first, and do the commandment of the king, as all the heathen have done, yea, and the men of Judah also, and they that remain at Jerusalem: so shalt thou and thy house be in the number of the king’s friends, and thou shalt be honoured with silver and gold, and many presents. 18 Then Mattathias answered and spake with a loud voice, Though all the nations that are under the king’s dominion obey him, and fall away every one from the religion of their fathers, and give consent to his commandments. (KJV)

The King’s officers appeal to Mattathias’s position and offer him wealth and honor in exchange for obedience to the King’s decrees. This reflects the seductive nature of worldly power and the temptation to compromise one’s faith for personal gain. Mattathias’s resounding refusal, “Though all the nations…obey him,” is a powerful declaration of allegiance to God above all else. This echoes Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego who refuse to bow to the statue and proclaimed, “If that is the case, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, O king. But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up.” (Daniel 3:17-18 NKJV)

Spiritual Application: The world constantly tempts us to compromise our faith for acceptance or material gain. Mattathias’s example reminds us that true honor lies in faithfulness to God, even when it means standing alone. We must be vigilant against the allure of worldly approval and remain steadfast in our convictions. When we are tempted, we must always remember the saints who persevered and stood fast in their faith. It is because of these people that we have the faith today. If they were to compromise, where would we be?

1 Maccabees 2:19-22

19 Yet will I and my sons and my brethren walk in the covenant of our fathers. 20 God forbid that we should forsake the law and the ordinances. 21 We will not hearken to the king’s words, to go from our religion, either on the right hand, or on the left. 22 As soon as he had left speaking these words, there came one of the Jews in the sight of all to sacrifice on the altar which was at Modin, according to the king’s commandment. (KJV)

Mattathias reaffirms his commitment to the covenant of his fathers, a declaration of unwavering fidelity to the Law of Moses and the traditions of his ancestors. His resolute stance sets the stage for the dramatic act that follows – the killing of the Jew who attempts to offer a pagan sacrifice. This act is not simply an act of violence but a symbolic defense of the sanctity of the covenant and a refusal to allow pagan practices to defile the worship of the One True God. It is a very dramatic moment that exemplifies his faith in God.

Spiritual Application: We are called to be unwavering in our commitment to the teachings of the Church and the traditions passed down to us. We must guard against syncretism – the blending of our faith with worldly ideologies or practices. Such clarity of conscience is critical in defending the faith in our personal life.

1 Maccabees 2:23-26

23 Which thing when Mattathias saw, he was inflamed with zeal, and his reins trembled, neither could he forbear to shew his anger according to judgment: wherefore he ran, and slew him upon the altar. 24 Also the king’s officer, who compelled men to sacrifice, he killed at that time, and pulled down the altar. 25 Thus dealt he zealously for the law of God, like as Phinees did unto Zambri the son of Salom. 26 And Mattathias cried throughout the city with a loud voice, saying, Whosoever is zealous of the law, and maintaineth the covenant, let him follow me. (KJV)

Mattathias, “inflamed with zeal,” acts decisively, killing both the apostate Jew and the king’s officer. This act, though seemingly violent, is presented as an act of righteous zeal, drawing a parallel to Phinehas (Numbers 25:6-13), who similarly executed justice against those who defiled the covenant. Mattathias’s cry, “Whosoever is zealous of the law, let him follow me,” becomes a call to arms, rallying those who remain faithful to join his rebellion. “ζῆλος” (zelos) is zeal, passion, and ardor – an intense fervor driving his actions. This righteous anger is a critical part of the rebellion and his passion is what drives him and his people to fight.

Spiritual Application: While physical violence is rarely justified, Mattathias’s zeal serves as a reminder that we must be passionate in defending the truth and resisting injustice. This could mean speaking out against falsehood, challenging harmful ideologies, or supporting those who are oppressed. The defense of the faith must always be rooted in love and justice, guided by the teachings of Christ, but that doesn’t mean we can’t be passionate in defense.

1 Maccabees 2:27-28

27 So he and his sons fled into the mountains, and left all that they had in the city. 28 Then many that sought after justice and judgment went down into the wilderness, to dwell there: (KJV)

Mattathias and his sons flee to the mountains, abandoning their possessions and comfortable lives. This act of self-sacrifice underscores the cost of discipleship and the willingness to endure hardship for the sake of righteousness. Their flight sparks a wider exodus of those who “sought after justice,” who join them in the wilderness. This resonates with the early monastic movements, where individuals abandoned worldly comforts to seek spiritual purity in desolate places. Modin, the town they left behind, was a thriving community, but they were willing to give it up to ensure they could follow the law of Moses.

Spiritual Application: Following Christ often requires sacrifice. We may need to give up certain comforts, relationships, or ambitions to live according to God’s will. This willingness to embrace hardship for the sake of righteousness is a hallmark of true faith. When faced with a decision, we must always remember God first, family second, and everything else after that.

1 Maccabees 2:49-70

49 Now when the time drew near that Mattathias should die, he said unto his sons, Now pride and rebuke are increased, and the time of destruction, and the wrath of indignation. 50 Now therefore, my sons, be ye zealous for the law, and give your lives for the covenant of your fathers. 51 Call to remembrance what acts our fathers did in their time; so shall ye receive great honour and an everlasting name. 52 Was not Abraham found faithful in temptation, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness? 53 Joseph in the time of his distress kept the commandment, and was made lord of Egypt. 54 Phinees our father in being zealous and fervent obtained the covenant of an everlasting priesthood. 55 Jesus for fulfilling the word endured the cross, and despised the shame; 56 Caleb for bearing witness before the congregation received the heritage of the land. 57 David for being merciful possessed the throne of an everlasting kingdom. 58 Elias for being zealous and fervent for the law was taken up into heaven. 59 Ananias, Azarias, and Misael, by believing were saved out of the flame. 60 Daniel for his innocency was delivered from the mouth of the lions. 61 And thus consider ye throughout all ages, that all they that put their trust in him shall not be overcome. 62 Fear not the words of a sinful man: for his glory shall be dung and worms. 63 To day he shall be lifted up, and to morrow he shall not be found, because he is returned into his dust, and his thought is come to nothing. 64 Wherefore, my sons, be valiant and shew yourselves men in the behalf of the law; for by it shall ye obtain glory. 65 And behold, I know that your brother Simon is a man of counsel, give ear unto him alway: he shall be a father unto you. 66 As for Judas Maccabeus, he hath been mighty and strong, even from his youth: let him be your captain, and fight the battle of the people. 67 Take also unto you all those that observe the law, and avenge ye the wrong of your people. 68 Recompense fully the heathen, and take heed to the commandments of the law. 69 So he blessed them, and was gathered to his fathers. 70 And he died in the hundred and forty and sixth year: and his sons buried him in the sepulchres of his fathers in Modin. (KJV)

As Mattathias nears death, he delivers a powerful testament and charge to his sons. He urges them to be zealous for the Law, reminding them of the examples of faithful individuals throughout history – Abraham, Joseph, Phinehas, Jesus (Joshua), Caleb, David, Elijah, Daniel, and the three young men in the fiery furnace. These examples underscore the reward of faithfulness and the fleeting nature of worldly power. He then appoints Simon as a counselor and Judas Maccabeus as the military leader, entrusting them with the continuation of the struggle. Mattathias, at the end of his life, passes on his knowledge and experiences to his children. This is one of the most important jobs as a parent: to teach our children how to live a Godly life.

Spiritual Application: We must learn from the examples of the saints and apply their lessons to our own lives. Mattathias’s final words remind us to remain faithful in the face of adversity, to trust in God’s promises, and to value eternal rewards over fleeting earthly gains. We must always remember that this life is fleeting, but life with God is eternal.

Key Reflections and Teachings

The account of Mattathias’s revolt in 1 Maccabees 2 offers several profound reflections for contemporary Coptic Orthodox believers:

• The Importance of Righteous Zeal: Mattathias’s actions, fueled by a burning zeal for God’s Law, demonstrate the need for passionate defense of the faith. This zeal should be guided by love and justice, not by hatred or violence.
• The Cost of Discipleship: Mattathias and his sons willingly abandoned their possessions and comfortable lives to remain faithful. This underscores the sacrifices often required to follow Christ.
• The Power of Tradition: Mattathias constantly references the “covenant of our fathers,” emphasizing the importance of preserving and upholding the traditions passed down through generations.
• The Fleeting Nature of Worldly Power: The chapter contrasts the ephemeral power of Antiochus with the eternal rewards promised to those who remain faithful to God.
• The Importance of Mentorship: Mattathias mentors his sons in how to be faithful and stand up for the truth, showing us that it is up to us to teach the next generation to defend the faith.

FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions about Mattathias’s Revolt and its relevance to Coptic Orthodox Christians:

• Q: Why is 1 Maccabees important for Coptic Orthodox Christians?

  A: 1 Maccabees provides valuable historical context for the intertestamental period and offers inspiring examples of faith and resistance against oppression. It also informs our understanding of the traditions and practices that shaped early Christianity and reinforces the importance of adhering to the teachings of our forefathers. Mattathias’s story encourages us to remain vigilant, to uphold truth, and to resist compromise when our faith is challenged, much like the desert fathers. You can also find [services to help you grow in your faith](https://dohost.us).

• Q: How does Mattathias’s zeal relate to Christian love?

  A: While Mattathias’s actions appear harsh, they stem from a deep love for God and a desire to protect His people from spiritual corruption. Christian love, similarly, can involve confronting injustice and speaking truth, even when it’s difficult. It is important to have the right intention and that everything we do is out of love for God and not selfish gain.

• Q: How can we apply the lessons of 1 Maccabees 2 to our lives today?

  A: We can emulate Mattathias’s unwavering faith by remaining steadfast in our convictions, resisting worldly temptations, and speaking out against injustice. We must also prioritize spiritual purity, cultivate righteous zeal, and strive to live according to God’s will, even when it requires sacrifice. Ultimately, we should never compromise our faith for worldly gain.

• Q: What is the significance of Mattathias’s lineage as a priest?

  A: Mattathias’s priestly lineage underscores the importance of the priesthood in preserving and defending the faith. It highlights the role of religious leaders in upholding tradition and guiding their communities through times of crisis. The priesthood is very important in the Coptic Orthodox church as it passes down traditions and leadership from generation to generation.

Conclusion

Mattathias’s Revolt, as depicted in 1 Maccabees 2, is a timeless testament to the power of unwavering faith and righteous resistance. His refusal to compromise with pagan practices and his passionate defense of the Law of Moses serve as an enduring example for Coptic Orthodox Christians today. Like Mattathias, we are called to be zealous for our faith, to resist worldly temptations, and to uphold the traditions passed down to us. The chapter highlights the fleeting nature of earthly power and the eternal rewards promised to those who remain faithful. Let us emulate his example, standing firm in our convictions and dedicating our lives to the service of God. By doing so, we can continue to defend the faith and build a community that reflects the love and justice of Christ. Let us strive to be like Mattathias, standing firm in our faith and never compromising our love for God. This is the key message of the chapter: **Defending the Faith**

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1 Maccabees 2, Mattathias, Maccabean Revolt, Coptic Orthodox, Hellenism, Faith, Righteous Zeal, Covenant, Tradition, Spiritual Warfare

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Explore 1 Maccabees 2 verse-by-verse commentary from a Coptic Orthodox perspective. Learn about Mattathias’s Revolt and the importance of **Defending the Faith** in today’s world.