"And they arose before the morning on the five and twentieth day of the ninth month (which is the month of Casleu) in the hundred and forty-eighth year. And they offered sacrifice according to the law upon the new altar of holocausts which they had made. According to the time, and according to the day wherein the heathens had defiled it, in the same was it dedicated anew with canticles, and harps, and lutes, and cymbals. And all the people fell upon their faces, and adored, and blessed up to heaven, him that had prospered them. And they kept the dedication of the altar eight days, and they offered holocausts with joy, and sacrifices of salvation, and of praise." 1 Maccabees 5:52-56 DRA
<p>Illustration of large crowd gathered to observe the rededication of the altar of holocausts.

Judas Machabeus Restores the Temple

"And they arose before the morning on the five and twentieth day of the ninth month (which is the month…

"And Apollonius gathered together the Gentiles, and a numerous and great army from Samaria, to make war against Israel. And Judas understood it, and went forth to meet him: and he overthrew him, and killed him: and many fell down slain, the rest fled away. And he took their spoils, and Judas took the sword of Apollonius, and fought with it all his lifetime." 1 Maccabees 3:10-12 DRA
<p>Illustration of Mathathias' son, Judas Machabeus, slaying Apollonius.

Judas Slays Apollonius

"And Apollonius gathered together the Gentiles, and a numerous and great army from Samaria, to make…

"And Judas said: Gird yourselves, and be valiant men, and be ready against the morning, that you may fight with these nations that are assembled against us to destroy us and our sanctuary. For it is better for us to die in battle, than to see the evils of our nation, and of the holies: Nevertheless as it shall be the will of God in heaven so be it done." 1 Maccabees 3:58-60 DRA
<p>Judas Machabeus rallies his troops for the coming battle against Gorgias.

Judas Speaks to His Army

"And Judas said: Gird yourselves, and be valiant men, and be ready against the morning, that you may…