The First Book of Maccabees

The book of 1 Maccabees tells the story of a Jewish family that stood up to a foreign ruler. It takes place about 150 years before the birth of Jesus. During this time, the land of Israel was ruled by a Greek king who tried to force the Jewish people to give up their faith. Some gave in, but others fought back. This book focuses on those who resisted.

The main leaders in this book are from the family of Mattathias and his sons. They are known as the Maccabees. They believed that staying faithful to God was more important than obeying the king. When the king ordered them to worship false gods, they said no. They started a revolt that would last for many years.

The book describes many battles, hardships, and victories. It shows how the Maccabees and their followers fought to keep the Jewish laws and customs. They were not trying to take over new land. They just wanted to protect their faith and way of life. The most famous part of the story is when they cleaned and rededicated the temple in Jerusalem, which had been defiled.

1 Maccabees is not just a history book. It also shows how the people stayed strong in their faith during hard times. It was written to encourage others to stay faithful too. It is included in the Catholic Bible and is often read during times when we reflect on courage and faithfulness.

1 Maccabees was written during a time when the Jewish people were under foreign rule. A Greek king named Antiochus IV ruled over them. He wanted everyone in his kingdom to follow Greek ways. That included giving up Jewish customs and worshiping Greek gods. Many people were afraid and did what he said. But others stayed faithful to God and resisted.

The story takes place around 175 to 135 years before Jesus was born. This was during a time called the Hellenistic period. Greek culture was spreading across many lands. The Jewish people were caught in the middle. They had to choose between going along with the Greek way or keeping their faith.

We do not know the name of the author of 1 Maccabees. But the writer clearly cared about the Jewish people and their history. He wrote in Hebrew first, but the version we have now is in Greek. This tells us that the book was meant for Jewish people who lived in Greek-speaking areas.

The author wanted the readers to remember the brave acts of the Maccabee family. He wrote it like a history book, but with a message. He wanted people to stay loyal to their faith, even when it was hard. The book helped people understand where they came from and why their traditions mattered.

The book of 1 Maccabees reads like a history book. It tells what happened in a clear and direct way. There are no poems, songs, or visions. The writer focuses on facts. He wants the reader to know who did what, when it happened, and why it mattered.

The writing is plain and serious. The author is not trying to entertain. He wants to teach. He uses short stories about battles, leaders, and important events. Each part builds on the one before it. This helps the reader follow the story easily.

The book names real people and real places. It gives dates and details. This shows that the writer wanted to be accurate. He also wanted the reader to respect the Maccabees and understand their choices.

1 Maccabees does not use big emotions or long prayers. It uses strong actions and clear speech. The style matches the message: stay faithful, act with courage, and remember your history.

1 Maccabees has many themes that connect with Catholic teaching. These ideas help us think about how we live our faith today. The book shows how God’s people can stay faithful, even in hard times.

• Faithfulness to God’s Law
  The people in this book choose to follow God’s law, even when it puts them in danger. Catholics are also called to stay faithful to God, even when the world tells us to do something else.
• Courage and Sacrifice
  The Maccabees are not afraid to suffer or even die for their beliefs. This reminds us of the saints and martyrs in our Church who gave their lives for Christ.
• Family and Leadership
  The family of Mattathias leads the people with strong faith. In Catholic life, we see parents, priests, and leaders who help others stay close to God.
• Hope in God’s Plan
  Even when things look dark, the people trust that God is still with them. Catholics believe that God never leaves us, even in times of struggle.

These themes can help us grow stronger in our own faith. They remind us that the choices we make matter and that God sees our efforts to stay true.

1 Maccabees is made up of 16 chapters. The book moves through the story in order, starting with the problem and ending with a new leader. Each part helps us understand how the Jewish people stayed strong and fought for their faith.

Here is one way to break down the book:

• Chapters 1:1–2:70
  The troubles begin. A Greek king, Antiochus IV, attacks the Jewish way of life. Mattathias and his sons decide to resist.
• Chapters 3:1–9:22
  Judas Maccabeus becomes the leader. He wins many battles and rededicates the temple. This is the time of the feast we now call Hanukkah.
• Chapters 9:23–12:53
  After Judas dies, his brother Jonathan leads the people. He deals with both enemies and allies. He also becomes high priest.
• Chapters 13:1–16:24
  The last brother, Simon, takes charge. He brings peace and is loved by the people. But his life also ends in trouble. His son John Hyrcanus takes over.

Each section shows how one leader stood up for the faith. The story builds from one person to the next, showing how God’s people kept going.

1 Maccabees tells the story of real people who made hard choices. Some stood for truth. Others tried to destroy it. Here are the main characters you will meet:

• Mattathias
  A faithful Jewish priest. He starts the revolt by refusing to offer a false sacrifice. He calls others to fight for God’s law.
• Judas Maccabeus
  Son of Mattathias. He becomes the main leader after his father dies. He is brave in battle and wins many victories.
• Jonathan
  Brother of Judas. He becomes the leader after Judas dies. He also serves as high priest and brings peace for a time.
• Simon
  The last of the leading brothers. He brings safety and freedom to the people. He is loved by many.
• Antiochus IV Epiphanes
  The Greek king who tries to force the Jews to stop following their faith. He sets up false worship in the temple.
• John Hyrcanus
  Son of Simon. He is named leader after his father dies. He continues the family’s work.

These characters show what it means to stand firm, even when things are hard. Some lead with courage. Others bring trouble. Each plays a part in the story of faith and survival.

Even though 1 Maccabees was written long ago, it still speaks to us today. The world changes, but some struggles stay the same. People still face pressure to give up their faith. This book reminds us to stay strong.

It also shows that families matter. The Maccabees worked together. They prayed, planned, and stood side by side. In our own families, we can help each other grow in faith and courage.

The story also teaches us to stand up for what is right. Even when others go the wrong way, we are called to follow God. That takes strength and trust, just like it did back then.

1 Maccabees gives hope to anyone who feels alone or unsure. It shows that even in dark times, we are never without a path forward. With prayer, support, and faith, we can keep going—just like the Maccabees did.

The book of 1 Maccabees is sometimes read during daily Mass in the Roman Catholic Church. These readings are not used often, but they come up in certain seasons. When they do, they help us think about staying faithful in hard times.

The readings usually focus on the courage of the Maccabee family. They show how the people stood up for God’s law. These stories remind us that being faithful is not always easy, but it is always worth it.

When we hear 1 Maccabees at Mass, we are called to think about our own choices. Do we follow the crowd, or do we follow God? These readings challenge us to choose well.

Even if this book is not read often at church, its message is still strong. It speaks to anyone who wants to live with courage and faith in a world that does not always make that easy.

• Monday of the 33rd Week in Ordinary Time I – 1 Maccabees 1:10-15, 41-43, 54-57, 62-63: Israel’s Struggle Under Antiochus
• Thursday of the 33rd Week in Ordinary Time I – 1 Maccabees 2:15-29: The Zeal of Mattathias for the Covenant
• Friday of the 33rd Week in Ordinary Time I – 1 Maccabees 4:36-37, 52-59: The Dedication of the Altar
• Saturday of the 33rd Week in Ordinary Time I –  1 Maccabees 6:1-13: The King’s Sorrow in Persia

Faith Under Pressure

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz introduces the First Book of Maccabees, chapter 1. He explains how it begins with Alexander the Great and then shifts to Antiochus Epiphanes, who rules with harsh power. Fr. Mike points out that this time was different from past rulers because Antiochus pushed hard for the Jews to give up their faith.

Fr. Mike talks about the pressure the Jewish people faced. Some tried to blend in with the Greek culture, even undoing signs of their covenant with God. He calls this a “soft totalitarianism,” where people give in just to fit in. But Antiochus also used violence, what Fr. Mike calls “hard totalitarianism.”

The episode highlights how Antiochus attacked Jerusalem, robbed the temple, and forced people to worship idols. Fr. Mike points to the horror of mothers being killed for circumcising their sons. He says this shows how far the persecution went.

Still, Fr. Mike closes with hope. He praises the Jews who stayed faithful and refused to eat unclean food, even if it meant death. Their courage sets the stage for the coming rebellion.

Mattathias Stands Up

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 1 Maccabees chapter 2. He talks about Mattathias, a priest who sees the deep pain and ruin in Jerusalem. When asked to join in the king’s pagan sacrifice, Mattathias refuses and instead calls people to stay faithful to God.

Fr. Mike explains that Mattathias acts with zeal, killing both the unfaithful Jew and the king’s officer. This sparks the beginning of a rebellion. Many faithful Jews flee to the hills with him to escape the pressure to abandon their faith.

Fr. Mike points out that this fight was not just against foreign rulers. Mattathias and his followers also acted against fellow Jews who gave up the covenant. Fr. Mike reminds us that just because a story is in the Bible doesn’t mean every action is good—it simply shows what happened.

Before he dies, Mattathias gives leadership to his sons. He tells them to trust Simeon’s wisdom and to follow Judas Maccabeus, a strong warrior nicknamed “the Hammer.” Fr. Mike notes this is the beginning of a fierce struggle for freedom and faith.

Judas the Hammer Takes the Lead

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 1 Maccabees chapter 3. He describes how Judas Maccabeus, also known as “the Hammer,” takes over leadership after his father’s death. Judas leads with courage and brings early victories against stronger enemies.

Fr. Mike explains how Judas defeats Apollonius and then Saran, even though his army is small and tired. Judas reminds his men that strength comes from heaven, not from numbers. This deep trust in God gives them hope and courage to fight.

As Judas’ fame spreads, King Antiochus sends out a much larger army under Lysias to crush the rebellion. Fr. Mike notes that the people fast, pray, and ask for God’s help. They trust in the Lord and prepare to defend the sanctuary.

Fr. Mike ends by saying that when Israel humbles itself and puts faith in God, they find strength and victory. He reminds listeners that while success isn’t always guaranteed, in this part of 1 Maccabees, God blesses their fight for faith and freedom.

The Battle, the Temple, and the Feast

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Maccabees chapter 4. He explains how Judas Maccabeus and his small army defeated a much larger Greek force. Fr. Mike says their victory came not from numbers, but because God was with them.

He highlights how Judas and the people went straight to Jerusalem after the battle. They were heartbroken when they saw the temple ruined. Unlike in Nehemiah’s time, they didn’t need to be reminded—they acted right away to rebuild and rededicate the temple.

Fr. Mike points out that this is the story of Hanukkah. He connects it with how God helped the Israelites in the past and still helps those who trust in Him. He reminds listeners that the people cared deeply about worshiping God.

Fr. Mike also notes that Hanukkah and Purim are two Jewish feasts that come from later stories, not from Moses. He says it’s interesting to see how God’s people kept finding ways to remember what God had done for them.

Battles and Freedom

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Maccabees chapter 5. He explains that Judas Maccabeus is fighting to protect the Jewish people from attacks by the Greeks and others. These battles are harsh, but Fr. Mike says they are part of a fight for freedom and survival.

Fr. Mike compares it to a war for independence. He says it’s like the kind of fight Americans might understand—fighting to live free and to worship God. He reminds us that war is always awful, but sometimes it is needed to protect what matters.

He also notes how violent the story is. Judas wins many battles, and the people are rescued. Still, Fr. Mike points out that some battles go badly when people act without listening to Judas.

Fr. Mike says this story is important because it shows the cost of freedom and the courage of the Jewish people. Even though it’s hard to read, 1 Maccabees 5 reminds us what people were willing to do to stay faithful.

Elephants, Betrayal, and the Fall of Antiochus

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Maccabees chapter 6. He shares how Antiochus Epiphanes hears about the Jewish victories and becomes sick with grief. Fr. Mike explains that the king realizes his actions against Jerusalem were wrong and believes his suffering is punishment. Antiochus dies and passes his crown to his son.

Fr. Mike focuses on the battle at Beth Zechariah. He tells the story of Eleazar, who bravely runs into the enemy lines to kill an elephant he thinks carries the king. Eleazar kills the elephant but is crushed under it and dies. Fr. Mike says this shows how people gave their lives for their faith and their people.

Fr. Mike explains that Judas and the Jews were strong and had fortified the city. The Greeks offer peace, and the Jews accept. But when the Greeks see how strong Jerusalem is, they break their word and tear down the walls before leaving.

Fr. Mike reminds us that this part of 1 Maccabees fits into a bigger picture. He connects it to Daniel’s vision of different kingdoms and says the story is moving closer to the time of the Romans. He encourages listeners to see how these battles are part of the story leading to Jesus.

Treachery and Triumph

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares how 1 Maccabees chapter 7 shows more of the struggles faced by the Jewish people. Demetrius takes power and sends Bacchides and Alchemus to attack Judas and his followers. Alchemus is made high priest but is not faithful to God. He tricks some of the people, kills them, and causes even more pain.

Fr. Mike points out that Judas sees how bad things have gotten. He fights back and protects his people. The king then sends Nicanor, who first pretends to want peace. But Judas sees through his lies and avoids the trap.

Fr. Mike explains how Nicanor mocks the temple and threatens to destroy it. The priests cry out to God. Judas prays and leads the people into battle.

Judas and his army defeat Nicanor. The people cut off his head and hand and celebrate the victory. Fr. Mike says this moment gave Judah some rest and hope, even if just for a while.

A Smart Deal or a Risky Move?

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Maccabees chapter 8. He explains how Judas Maccabeus hears about the power of the Romans and decides to make an alliance with them. Rome is praised for being strong and loyal to its friends, so Judas sends men to form a peace agreement.

Fr. Mike points out that this chapter shows the Jews using human wisdom. They don’t have a prophet to guide them, so they do what seems smart. He wonders what an Old Testament prophet would say about this. In the past, prophets warned against trusting other nations instead of trusting God.

Fr. Mike reminds us that this move may help now, but it won’t last. Rome will later take over Israel. He says it’s interesting that there’s no clear word from God at this time. The people are doing their best without a prophet’s voice.

He ends by asking what we do when we don’t hear God clearly. Do we make decisions that just seem smart, or do we pause and ask what God really wants?

The Death of Judas and a New Leader

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 1 Maccabees 9. He talks about the final battle of Judas Maccabeus, who is left with only 800 men. Judas chooses to fight even though they are outnumbered. He dies in the battle, and his people mourn him deeply.

Fr. Mike explains that after Judas dies, his brother Jonathan becomes the new leader. He says this was a hard time. Many lawless people rose up, and the faithful had to fight both outside enemies and their own people. These traitors were more painful than foreign armies.

Fr. Mike shares how hard it is when the people hurting you are supposed to be your family or friends. He says it’s one thing to face enemies. But it’s harder when people who should stand with you have turned away.

He also says that 1 Maccabees is written more like a history book. It tells the story but doesn’t give a lesson. He reminds listeners that the deeper meaning will come later in 2 Maccabees.

Jonathan Makes a Big Choice

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Maccabees chapter 10. Two kings—Alexander and Demetrius—are both trying to win Jonathan’s support. They send letters and promises, hoping he will take their side.

Fr. Mike explains that Alexander gives Jonathan a short but respectful letter. He calls him a warrior and names him high priest. Demetrius, on the other hand, offers many rewards. He promises no taxes, freedom for captives, and help for the temple.

But Fr. Mike says Jonathan doesn’t trust Demetrius. He remembers how he had hurt the Jews in the past. Jonathan sticks with Alexander, and later Alexander wins the battle.

Fr. Mike points out the wisdom in Jonathan’s choice. He also mentions a later fight with Apollonius, which Jonathan wins. Because of this, Alexander honors him with gifts and more power.

Jonathan’s Rise, Demetrius’ Fall

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 1 Maccabees 11. He points out how the book tells history without many comments about where God is acting. Unlike earlier books in the Bible, this one doesn’t pause to explain what battles or choices mean through the lens of faith.

Fr. Mike explains how the author just gives the story straight. We hear about kings fighting, cities changing hands, and Jonathan dealing with shifting alliances. But the book doesn’t say what God thinks about all of it.

He notes that readers have to look for God’s work themselves. This chapter shows Jonathan rising in power, but Demetrius breaks his promises. Fr. Mike says this is part of the bigger pattern in 1 Maccabees, where we don’t always see God’s role spelled out.

Fr. Mike reminds us that even though it feels like a history book, God is still active. We need faith to see it. The book is quiet about God’s presence, but He hasn’t gone anywhere.

Jonathan’s Fall and a Warning About Power

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Maccabees chapter 12. He explains how Jonathan makes alliances with Rome and Sparta. These moves seem smart, but Fr. Mike reminds us that not all leaders who sound trustworthy really are.

Fr. Mike tells how Jonathan is tricked by Trifo. Even though Trifo acts like a friend, he captures Jonathan and kills his men. This shows that power often comes with lies and betrayal.

Fr. Mike says 1 Maccabees gives us the facts without much commentary. It doesn’t tell us where God is in every event. He reminds us that the story just moves forward, even through pain and loss.

Jonathan’s death is a turning point. Fr. Mike says Simon, his brother, will soon step up to lead. The fight for the faith continues, even in hard times.

Simon Becomes Leader and Brings Peace

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Maccabees chapter 13. He explains how Simon takes command after the death of his brother Jonathan. Simon encourages the people and promises to defend them and follow the law.

Fr. Mike says this chapter shows the start of Jewish independence. Simon leads with strength and faith. He builds up the cities, protects the temple, and cleans out the places where idols had been.

Fr. Mike points out that Simon’s rule looks like a theocracy. That can sound strange to us. But he reminds us that God had called His people to live by His law. Fr. Mike compares this to how we now live under the rule of Christ in the Church.

He says 1 Maccabees tells the story like history, without much explanation. But it still shows how God’s people fought to stay faithful. Fr. Mike invites us to see how we also are called to live by God’s law in our daily lives.

Simon Brings Peace and Honor

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Maccabees 14. He explains how Simon brought peace to the land. People were able to live without fear. Fr. Mike highlights the verse, “Each man sat under his vine and fig tree,” and says it’s one of his favorite lines.

Fr. Mike says Simon ruled with wisdom and care. He rebuilt cities, protected the temple, and helped the poor. People were thankful and honored him. Even the Romans and Spartans showed respect.

Fr. Mike explains that many hoped this would be the time God restored the kingdom. They thought Israel’s independence would lead to a king from David’s line. But that was not God’s plan.

Fr. Mike reminds us that the real king—Jesus—would come later. God didn’t raise up another warrior. Instead, He came Himself. Fr. Mike says this shows how God’s plan is often different than what we expect.

Simon Stands Firm Against Pressure

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Maccabees chapter 15. He shares how Simon faces pressure from Antiochus VII, who wants land, cities, and payment. But Simon stands firm and says the land belongs to the Jews. It was taken from them long ago, and now they are simply taking back what is theirs.

Fr. Mike explains that Simon answers with calm and strength. He says the Jews are not stealing anything. They are holding onto their inheritance. Even though Antiochus is angry, Simon does not give in.

Fr. Mike also points out that Simon is a wise leader. Unlike his brothers Judas and Jonathan, who were strong fighters, Simon knows how to lead with strategy. Still, there is constant trouble. Kings, enemies, and betrayal surround him.

Fr. Mike connects this to the long history of Israel. He reminds us that these fights over land and power go back hundreds of years. And even now, those struggles continue.

The Last Battle and a Betrayal

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 1 Maccabees chapter 16. He says this is the final chapter of the book. It tells how John, Simon’s son, leads the army and wins a battle against Sendebius. John shows courage and leads the people well.

Fr. Mike explains how the chapter takes a dark turn. Simon and his sons are murdered by Ptolemy during a banquet. Ptolemy was Simon’s son-in-law and wanted to take power for himself.

Fr. Mike says the book ends with John becoming the new high priest. He keeps fighting and defending his people. The rest of his story is written elsewhere, but not in this book.

He also notes that this is the last we hear from 1 Maccabees. He points out that the next book, 2 Maccabees, will tell the same story in a different way. It will show more clearly where God is working.

The Bible

Want to learn more about how the Bible fits together? Whether you’re new to the Bible or just looking for a simple way to understand it better, we can help. The stories, people, and lessons all connect in a bigger picture.

Visit our page on Understanding the Bible to get started. It’s a great place to find clear explanations and helpful ideas. Take a few minutes to explore—you might see the Bible in a new way.

Is 1 Maccabees in every Bible?

No. 1 Maccabees is in Catholic Bibles, but not in most Protestant Bibles. Catholics believe it is part of the full Bible.

Who wrote 1 Maccabees?

We don’t know the name of the writer. It was likely a Jewish person who lived not long after the events happened.

Why is 1 Maccabees important to Catholics?

It shows the importance of staying faithful to God. It also connects to Church teachings about courage, loyalty, and family.

What is the main message of 1 Maccabees?

Stay faithful, even when it’s hard. God’s people can trust Him during struggles.

Does 1 Maccabees talk about Jesus?

No. It was written before Jesus was born. But it helps us understand the world Jesus was born into.

1 Maccabees tells the story of a Jewish family that refuses to give up their faith. It takes place about 150 years before Jesus was born. A Greek king, Antiochus IV, tried to force the Jews to stop worshiping God. Many people gave in, but a priest named Mattathias and his sons said no.

Mattathias and his sons, known as the Maccabees, started a revolt. They fought to keep the Jewish faith alive. Judas, one of the sons, became the leader after his father died. He led the people through many battles and even took back the temple in Jerusalem.

Later, his brothers Jonathan and Simon took over. Each one faced struggles but helped bring safety and peace. The book ends with Simon’s son, John Hyrcanus, taking the lead.

This story is important to Catholics because it shows courage, loyalty to God, and the power of family. It reminds us to stay strong in our faith, even when others try to pull us away from it.

Have you ever felt pressure to hide your faith? 1 Maccabees shows how people stayed strong even when it was risky. It can inspire us to make brave choices and trust that God is with us.

Take some time to read 1 Maccabees. Think about what it means for your life today. Share your thoughts in the comment section. What stood out to you? How did it speak to your own experience?