The Unshakeable Faith: A Coptic Commentary on 2 Maccabees 6 and the Martyrdom of Eleazar

Executive Summary

2 Maccabees 6 recounts the intensifying persecution of the Jewish people under Antiochus IV Epiphanes. This chapter unveils the desecration of the Temple in Jerusalem, the imposition of pagan worship, and the prohibition of Jewish customs, including circumcision and Sabbath observance. It reaches its climax with the martyrdom of Eleazar, a revered elder and scribe, who resolutely refuses to violate God’s law, even under the threat of torture and death. Eleazar’s unwavering commitment serves as a powerful testament to the enduring strength of faith in the face of immense suffering and a beacon of hope amidst the darkest of times, reminding us that faithfulness to God sometimes requires the ultimate sacrifice. His story underscores the importance of upholding our beliefs even when pressured to compromise.

This exploration of 2 Maccabees 6 will illuminate the historical context, delve into the spiritual significance of Eleazar’s sacrifice, and draw parallels to the unwavering faith exemplified by the saints and martyrs of the Coptic Orthodox Church. The chapter emphasizes the importance of maintaining faithfulness to God and His commandments even when faced with extreme pressure and persecution. The “Unshakeable Faith” of Eleazar continues to inspire Christians today.

Commentary Sections

Verse 1-2: The Desecration of the Temple

2 Maccabees 6:1-2 (KJV): Not long after this the king sent an old man of Athens to compel the Jews to depart from the laws of their fathers, and not to live after the laws of God: And to pollute also the temple in Jerusalem, and to call it the temple of Jupiter Olympius; and that in Garizim, as they did desire, to call it the temple of Jupiter Xenius.

2 Maccabees 6:1-2 (NKJV): Not long after this the king sent an Athenian elder to compel the Jews to forsake the laws of their fathers and not to live according to the laws of God; and to pollute the temple in Jerusalem and call it the temple of Zeus Olympius, and the one in Gerizim, as the people of that place desired, the temple of Zeus Xenius.

The chapter opens with Antiochus IV Epiphanes escalating his campaign against Judaism, sending an Athenian elder, a figure steeped in Hellenistic culture, to enforce pagan practices and suppress Jewish traditions. This act symbolizes the deliberate attempt to eradicate the Jewish identity and replace it with Hellenistic culture. The desecration of the Temple by renaming it after Zeus Olympius was not merely a symbolic gesture; it was a profound assault on the heart of Jewish religious life. The choice of Zeus, the king of the Greek gods, further emphasized the dominance of Hellenistic power. This act was intended to undermine the very foundation of their faith. This desecration, echoing the abomination of desolation foretold by Daniel (Daniel 11:31, 12:11), highlights the spiritual battle taking place. Similarly, our hearts can become temples defiled by worldly desires. We must guard our hearts from such intrusions, seeking to be temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). We must stand firm in our faith and resist the temptations of the world. If you need assistance reaching your congregation, consider using a resource from doHost.

Patristic Insight: St. Athanasius the Great in *Contra Gentes* emphasizes the absurdity of pagan worship, stating, “Τίς οὖν οὕτως ἄφρων ὥστε κτίσμα προσκυνεῖν ἀντὶ τοῦ κτίσαντος;” (“Who is so foolish as to worship the creation instead of the Creator?”). This underscores the fundamental error in turning away from the true God to idols.

Verse 3-7: The Suppression of Jewish Practices

2 Maccabees 6:3-7 (KJV): For the coming in of the heathen into the temple was full of riot and revelling, rioting and drunkenness. And men and women willingly succumbed to them; and they were sacrificing upon the altars before the idols, and were defiling the holy places: And they were filling the place with fornication, and with all uncleanness; For the coming in of the heathen into the temple was full of riot and revelling, rioting and drunkenness. And men and women willingly succumbed to them; and they were sacrificing upon the altars before the idols, and were defiling the holy places: And they were filling the place with fornication, and with all uncleanness; They were not even allowing the people to keep the sabbath days, nor observe the festivals of their fathers, nor so much as to profess themselves to be Jews. And a bitter compulsion was placed on them to go to the yearly sacrifice in honor of Dionysus.

2 Maccabees 6:3-7 (NKJV): The temple was filled with lewdness and reveling by the Gentiles, who dallied with harlots and had intercourse with women in the sacred court; and besides these things brought in things that were forbidden. The altar was covered with abominable offerings which were against the law. A man could not keep the Sabbath days or observe the feasts of his fathers, nor so much as confess himself to be a Jew. And on the monthly celebration of the king’s birthday, the Jews were taken by bitter constraint to partake of the sacrifices; and when the feast of Dionysus was celebrated, they were compelled to wear ivy wreaths and walk in procession in honor of Dionysus.

These verses depict a scene of utter moral and spiritual decay. The Temple, once a sanctuary of holiness, is defiled by pagan rituals and immoral acts. The suppression of Sabbath observance, festivals, and even the profession of Jewish identity represents a complete assault on their religious and cultural heritage. The forcing of Jews to participate in the worship of Dionysus, the Greek god of wine and revelry, underscores the deliberate attempt to erase their distinctiveness. The “Unshakeable Faith” of the faithful Jews was tested like never before. We too face pressures to conform to the world’s standards, often at the expense of our faith. We must be vigilant against the subtle ways in which the world seeks to compromise our beliefs and values, remembering the words of St. Paul: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2). Maintaining our unique Christian identity in a secular world is a constant struggle, requiring discernment, courage, and unwavering commitment to Christ.

Verse 8-11: The Persecution and Torture

2 Maccabees 6:8-11 (KJV): Furthermore, at the suggestion of the people of Ptolemais, a decree went out to the neighboring Greek cities, that they should act in the same way against the Jews, to compel them to partake of the sacrifices: And that those who would not comply should be put to death: Then it became obvious that wrath had gone out over Israel. For example, women who had circumcised their children were publicly hanged with their babies around their necks; and those who had hidden in caves to keep the sabbath day, were brought to light and burned alive.

2 Maccabees 6:8-11 (NKJV): Moreover, at the suggestion of the people of Ptolemais a decree was issued to the neighboring Greek cities to deal with the Jews in the same way, so that they should partake of the sacrifices, and that those who were unwilling to conform to Greek customs should be put to death. Thus one could see what calamity had come upon Israel. For example, two women were brought in who had circumcised their children. They publicly paraded them through the city with their babies hanging at their breasts, then hurled them down headlong from the wall. Others who had assembled in caves nearby to observe the seventh day secretly were betrayed to Philip and all burned together, because their piety kept them from defending themselves or protecting themselves because of their regard for the holiness of that day.

The persecution intensified, with decrees issued to Greek cities to force Jews to participate in pagan sacrifices, punishable by death. The horrific examples of women being publicly executed with their circumcised children and those observing the Sabbath being burned alive illustrate the brutality of the persecution. These acts were intended not only to punish dissent but also to instill fear and discourage any resistance. The “Unshakeable Faith” faced its ultimate test. The suffering endured by these faithful individuals reminds us of the importance of protecting vulnerable communities. Just as these women faced unimaginable cruelty for their faith, we are called to advocate for the marginalized and oppressed in our society. We must remember the words of Christ: “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40).

Verse 12-17: The Martyrdom of Eleazar

2 Maccabees 6:12-17 (KJV): Now Eleazar, one of the scribes of chief authority, an old man, and of a well favoured countenance, was constrained to open his mouth, and to eat swine’s flesh. But he, choosing rather to die gloriously, than to live stained with such an abomination, spat it forth, and came of his own accord to the torment, As it became him to do, who ought to leave such an example as this to others, that they should not be afraid of death; but that they should willingly undergo trials to obtain the crown of an immortal reward. For he was old enough to give good counsel; and because of his age, and great dignity, he was respected among all. Therefore now the tyrant demanded that he should eat of the swine’s flesh, to which he would not, but that he should pretend to eat, as others were doing, so as to give an example to the others, and so that they might do the same. And thus, because of his dissimulation, he would save his life, and be given the kindness shown to him because of their old friendship.

2 Maccabees 6:12-17 (NKJV): Eleazar, one of the chief scribes, a man of advanced age and noble appearance, was being forced to open his mouth to eat swine’s flesh. But he, having a high regard for himself because of his noble birth and his age, and having been trained in the Law from childhood, immediately submitted to torture rather than transgress the holy commandments. He spat out what they were forcing him to eat, and went forward of his own accord to the instrument of torture, as men ought to do who have the courage to refuse to do things that are not right, even for the sake of living. Those who were in charge of the wicked sacrifice, because of their longstanding acquaintance with him, took him aside and privately urged him to send for meat of his own providing that was lawful for him to eat, and to pretend that he was eating the flesh of the sacrifice, as the king had commanded, so that by doing this he might escape death, and obtain humane treatment because of his old friendship with them.

The narrative shifts to Eleazar, a respected elder and scribe, who is pressured to eat swine’s flesh, a blatant violation of Jewish law. Eleazar, recognizing the implications of his actions, refuses to compromise his faith, choosing death over dishonor. His decision is not merely a personal one; he understands that his actions will serve as an example to others. He is keenly aware of his responsibility as a leader and an exemplar of faith. St. Ignatius of Antioch, in his *Letter to Polycarp*, encourages believers to “stand firm as an anvil under the hammer.” Eleazar’s “Unshakeable Faith” embodies this very strength. He prioritizes spiritual integrity over earthly life, setting a powerful example for future generations. In our own lives, we face countless temptations to compromise our values and beliefs for personal gain or social acceptance. Eleazar’s example challenges us to stand firm in our convictions, even when it is difficult or unpopular. His unwavering commitment to the law reminds us that true discipleship requires a willingness to suffer for the sake of Christ. We should always strive to be like Eleazar, prioritizing our spiritual well-being over our physical comfort.

Verse 18-20: Eleazar’s Noble Refusal

2 Maccabees 6:18-20 (KJV): But he began to consider more carefully, befitting his age, and his own great dignity, and the distinguished gray hairs, which he had honourably obtained, and his excellent character from a child, but still more to the holy and divine law; therefore he gave a clear answer, accordingly, telling them to send him to Hades at once, For it is not fitting for one of our age to feign, by which, on account of me, many of the young might turn aside, supposing that Eleazar in his ninetieth year had gone over to an alien way of life: And so, because of my pretense, and for the sake of a short space of a corruptible life, I should cause them to be deceived, and bring a stain upon my old age, and make it abominable.

2 Maccabees 6:18-20 (NKJV): But he began to reason soundly and in a manner worthy of his age and dignity and the eminence of his gray hair, which he had reached with distinction, and his excellent character from childhood, or rather, above all, with his regard for the holy laws given by God. He declared himself quickly, telling them to send him to Hades. “For it is not fitting at my age to pretend, so that many of the young might suppose that Eleazar in his ninetieth year had gone over to an alien religion. For through my pretense, and for the sake of living a brief moment longer, I should leave to the young a cause for offense, and I would bring dishonor and disgrace on my old age.

Eleazar refuses to compromise, explaining that it is unbecoming of someone of his age and stature to feign compliance. He recognizes that his actions would mislead the younger generation, causing them to doubt the integrity of their faith. His concern for the spiritual well-being of others outweighs his desire to preserve his own life. Eleazar’s decision is driven by a profound sense of responsibility and a deep understanding of the importance of setting a righteous example. Our choices, no matter how small they may seem, have the power to impact others, especially those who look up to us. We must be mindful of the example we set, ensuring that our actions reflect our faith and values. As St. Paul urges, “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12). Eleazar’s “Unshakeable Faith” is seen in his actions and words.

Verse 21-28: Eleazar’s Martyrdom and Legacy

2 Maccabees 6:21-28 (KJV): For if I were to pretend now, I should not escape the hands of the Almighty, neither alive nor dead. Therefore I will now manfully yield up my life for the law and for our fathers; appealing to him to be gracious to our nation, to punish those who have subjected them, and to cause them to acknowledge that he alone is God. He then went straight to the instrument of torture, those who were leading him changing into hatred the good will which they had shown him a little before, because the words spoken by him seemed to them utter madness. And when he was about to die because of the blows received, he groaned, and said: ‘The Lord, who possesses holy knowledge, knows very well that, though I might have escaped death, I am suffering severe pains in my body; but in my soul I gladly suffer these things, because I fear him.’ Thus, he died, leaving not only to the young, but also to the entire nation, an example of courage, for he died a heroic death for virtue and for the law.

2 Maccabees 6:21-28 (NKJV): For even if for the present I would avoid the punishment of men, I shall not escape the hands of the Almighty, either in life or after death. Therefore, by manfully giving up my life now, I will show myself worthy of my old age and leave to the young a noble example of how to die willingly and generously for the revered and holy laws.” When he had said this, he went at once to the instrument of torture. Those who shortly before had been kindly disposed toward him became hostile, because the words he had uttered they regarded as utter madness. When he was about to die under the blows, he groaned and said: “It is clear to the Lord in his holy knowledge that, though I might have escaped death, I am enduring terrible sufferings in my body, but in my soul I am glad to suffer these things because I fear him.” So in this way he died, leaving not only to the young but to the great body of his nation a pattern of nobility and an example of courage.

Eleazar willingly embraces martyrdom, recognizing that true freedom lies in obedience to God. He appeals to God to have mercy on his nation and to punish those who oppress them. Even in his dying moments, he expresses his joy in suffering for the sake of God, knowing that his sacrifice will inspire others. His death is not a defeat, but a victory, a testament to the enduring power of faith. The martyrdom of Eleazar resonates with the countless saints and martyrs of the Coptic Orthodox Church who have similarly faced persecution and death for their unwavering faith. St. Stephen, the first martyr, prayed for his persecutors as he was being stoned (Acts 7:59-60). Eleazar’s “Unshakeable Faith” inspires us to endure trials and hardships with grace and courage, knowing that God will never abandon us. Let us emulate Eleazar’s unwavering faith, and by God’s grace, we too can inspire those around us.

Subtopic: The Significance of Eleazar’s Sacrifice

Eleazar’s martyrdom transcends a mere act of defiance. It embodies profound spiritual principles that remain relevant to believers today.

• Witness to Truth: Eleazar’s death was a powerful witness to the truth of God’s law, demonstrating that it is worth more than earthly life.
• Inspiration to Others: His example inspired others to remain faithful, even in the face of severe persecution.
• Victory over Fear: Eleazar conquered the fear of death by prioritizing his relationship with God, illustrating how faith can overcome our deepest anxieties.
• Spiritual Legacy: His memory serves as a reminder of the importance of standing firm in our convictions and upholding the truth, regardless of the cost.
• Honoring God: Eleazar’s sacrifice was an act of worship and reverence, showing that he valued God’s law above all else.
• Enduring Faith: His story challenges us to examine our own faith and to ask ourselves whether we are willing to make similar sacrifices for the sake of Christ.

FAQ ❓

Q: Why did Antiochus IV Epiphanes persecute the Jewish people?

A: Antiochus sought to Hellenize the Jewish people, imposing Greek culture and religion to unify his kingdom. This suppression of Jewish customs and beliefs led to widespread persecution and ultimately, the Maccabean revolt.

Q: What made Eleazar’s martyrdom so significant?

A: Eleazar was a respected elder and scribe, and his refusal to compromise his faith set a powerful example for others to follow. His actions inspired courage and strengthened the resolve of those facing similar persecution.

Q: How does Eleazar’s story relate to modern-day Christians?

A: Eleazar’s story challenges us to examine our own commitment to Christ and to be willing to stand firm in our faith, even when it is difficult or unpopular. It reminds us that true discipleship requires a willingness to sacrifice for the sake of the gospel.

Q: What are some practical ways we can apply Eleazar’s example in our lives?

A: We can apply Eleazar’s example by prioritizing our relationship with God, resisting temptations to compromise our values, and setting a positive example for others through our words and actions. We should seek to live lives that are pleasing to God, even when it requires sacrifice.

Conclusion

The martyrdom of Eleazar in 2 Maccabees 6 stands as a powerful testament to the “Unshakeable Faith” and enduring strength of conviction. Faced with the agonizing choice between compromising his beliefs and enduring torture, he chose unwavering loyalty to God, a decision rooted in a profound understanding of spiritual truth and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of his community. Eleazar’s sacrifice is not merely a historical event; it is a timeless lesson in faithfulness, courage, and the importance of setting a righteous example. His story resonates deeply with the Coptic Orthodox tradition, echoing the lives of countless saints and martyrs who have similarly prioritized their faith above all else. Let Eleazar’s unwavering commitment inspire us to remain steadfast in our beliefs, to prioritize spiritual integrity over earthly comfort, and to live lives that reflect the glory of God. By emulating Eleazar, we strengthen our faith, offer hope to those around us, and contribute to the enduring legacy of faithfulness that defines the Christian experience.

Tags

2 Maccabees, Eleazar, Martyrdom, Faith, Coptic Orthodox, Antiochus, Persecution, Temple, Hellenism, Sacrifice

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Explore 2 Maccabees 6 and the Martyrdom of Eleazar with a Coptic Orthodox lens. Discover how Eleazar’s “Unshakeable Faith” inspires courage & steadfastness in modern life.