The Second Book of Maccabees

2 Maccabees is a book in the Old Testament that tells the story of Jewish people living under Greek rule. It focuses on a time of great trouble, when the king of Syria tried to force the Jews to stop following their faith. This book tells how some of them chose to suffer and even die rather than turn away from God. It is not a light or easy story. But it is full of strength, hope, and trust in God.

Unlike 1 Maccabees, which tells the story from a political view, 2 Maccabees is more focused on God and prayer. It talks more about what the people believed. It tells how God helped those who were faithful and how He punished those who were cruel. It also includes stories of miracles, visions, and prayers for the dead. These parts remind us that God listens, even when times are hard.

One of the strongest themes in 2 Maccabees is the importance of staying true to God, even when it is dangerous. There are stories of men, women, and even young people who chose death over breaking God’s law. These stories can be hard to read, but they show deep trust. They show us what real faith can look like when everything is falling apart.

This book also teaches us to pray for those who have died. That is something we still do today in the Church. 2 Maccabees shows that God’s care does not stop at death. It gives us a reason to hope, even when we grieve. This book helps us understand why remembering the dead, and praying for them, matters so much.

2 Maccabees was written during a dark time for the Jewish people. It takes place in the second century before Jesus was born. A Greek king named Antiochus IV ruled over the land. He tried to force the Jews to give up their faith. He banned their worship, ruined the Temple, and punished those who kept God’s law. Many Jews suffered. Some gave in, but others stood firm.

The book was not written in Jerusalem. It was written in Greek, probably in Egypt, where many Jews had moved. At that time, many Jewish people lived far from their homeland. They needed a reminder to stay faithful. The book was written to encourage them. It told true stories of courage and reminded them that God sees and cares.

The author of 2 Maccabees is not named. But the writer says the book is a summary. It is based on a longer work by someone named Jason of Cyrene. So we know it was not just made up. The stories were passed down and remembered for a reason. The writer wanted the readers to stay strong and trust God, even when things seemed hopeless.

This book is not just history. It is a message. It teaches that God does not forget His people. The writer shows that even in pain, God is near. He lifts up the ones who love Him. The story was meant to bring hope, especially for those far from home or facing danger.

2 Maccabees is written in a very different way than many other books in the Old Testament. It is not a list of laws or a group of psalms. It is not a step-by-step history either. It is written like a letter, with a clear message and a strong voice. The writer wants the reader to feel what the people were going through.

The book uses a lot of emotion. The writer wants the reader to care about the people who are suffering. There are long speeches, deep prayers, and dramatic moments. When someone is brave, the writer tells us clearly. When someone is cruel, the writer shows us their evil. This makes the stories easy to follow and hard to forget.

Miracles and signs from God are a big part of this book. The writer does not just talk about battles and kings. He talks about visions, angels, and prayers being answered. These parts help us see that the story is about more than just human strength. It shows how people trusted God in their pain.

The stories are told with care. Some parts are sad. Some are full of joy. Some are hard to read because they speak of suffering. But the writer is always clear. He wants the reader to understand what happened and why it mattered. The style helps us feel close to the people in the story, even though they lived long ago.

2 Maccabees speaks to many things we believe as Catholics. Even though the book is old, the lessons are still important today. It reminds us to stay faithful, care for the dead, and trust in God’s justice. Here are a few of the main themes:

• Resurrection of the dead
  The book teaches that those who die for their faith will rise again. This is clear in the story of the seven brothers and their mother. They choose to die rather than break God’s law. They believe God will raise them up in the end.
• Praying for the dead
  One story tells about soldiers who died in sin. Their friends offer prayers and sacrifices for them. This is one reason Catholics pray for the souls in purgatory. We ask God to forgive them and bring them into heaven.
• Martyrdom and courage
  Many people in this book suffer and die for their faith. They show that faith is worth more than life itself. The Church honors people like this as martyrs. They remind us to be strong in our own struggles.
• God’s justice and mercy
  2 Maccabees shows that God sees both good and evil. Those who hurt the faithful will be judged. But God also shows mercy. He cares for those who suffer. He gives strength to those who call on Him.

These themes help us live our faith today. They show that God is close to His people, even in hard times. They also help us understand why the Church teaches what it does about death, hope, and prayer.

2 Maccabees has 15 chapters. It is not one long story but several shorter ones put together. The book is written as a summary of a longer work, so it moves quickly. It begins with letters and ends with a final word of hope. Here’s how it is divided:

• Letters to the Jews in Egypt (2 Maccabees 1:1–2:18)
  The book opens with two letters. These were sent to Jews living in Egypt. They encourage them to keep the feast of Hanukkah and remember God’s help.
• Introduction by the writer (2 Maccabees 2:19–32)
  The author explains why the book was written. He says it is a shorter version of a larger work by Jason of Cyrene. He hopes people will read it and learn from it.
• The troubles under Antiochus (2 Maccabees 3:1–7:42)
  This part tells of the attacks on the Temple and the Jewish people. It includes the story of Eleazar and the mother with her seven sons. They choose to die rather than break God’s law.
• The victories of Judas Maccabeus (2 Maccabees 8:1–15:39)
  This section shows how Judas fought back against the Greeks. He prayed to God and led the people in battle. It ends with a big win and the cleansing of the Temple.

Each section shows a different part of the struggle. Some parts are full of pain. Others are full of courage. But all of them remind us to trust God, keep the faith, and pray for each other.

The people in 2 Maccabees are brave, faithful, and sometimes cruel. Some are heroes who trust God. Others try to stop the Jewish people from keeping their faith. Here are some of the main characters:

• Judas Maccabeus
  He is the main hero of the book. He leads the Jewish people in battle against the Greeks. He is strong in faith and brave in war. He also prays and trusts God.
• Eleazar
  He is an old man who is told to eat food against God’s law. He refuses and chooses to die instead. His story shows courage and trust in God.
• The mother and her seven sons
  This family is forced to break God’s law. They all refuse. One by one, the sons are killed. The mother stands strong with them. Their story shows great faith.
• Antiochus IV Epiphanes
  He is the cruel king of Syria. He tries to wipe out the Jewish faith. He attacks the Temple and punishes those who keep God’s law.
• Alcimus
  He is a Jewish high priest who works with the Greeks. He goes against his own people. He helps the king hurt those who stay faithful.
• Jason of Cyrene
  He is the one who wrote the longer history that this book is based on. We do not see him in the story, but the author mentions him.

Each of these people plays an important role. Some stand with God. Some fight against Him. Their choices show us what it means to live with faith during hard times.

Even though 2 Maccabees is an old book, it still speaks to us now. It reminds us to stay strong in our faith, even when it is hard. Many people around the world still suffer for what they believe. This book helps us understand that we are not alone. Others have faced the same struggles.

2 Maccabees also teaches us to care for those who have died. As Catholics, we pray for souls in purgatory. This book shows that people did this even before Jesus came. It reminds us to keep praying for others, even after death.

This book helps us think about courage. The people in the story stayed faithful in the middle of fear and pain. That kind of strength is something we can learn from. We may not face death for our faith, but we face pressure to stay quiet or go along with wrong things.

Finally, 2 Maccabees teaches us to trust God. In good times or bad, He stays close to those who follow Him. The people in this book believed that, and we can too. Their story helps us stay strong in our own walk with God.

Parts of 2 Maccabees are read during Mass in the Catholic Church. These readings remind us of courage, faith, and hope. They are usually read during special times when the Church wants us to think about life, death, and the power of faith.

One reading often used is the story of the mother and her seven sons. It shows how strong faith can be, even in the face of death. This reading is used when the Church wants to honor martyrs or talk about the resurrection of the body.

Another passage speaks about praying for the dead. This helps us understand why Catholics pray for souls in purgatory. It shows that prayer after death is not a new idea. It is part of our long tradition.

When we hear these stories at Mass, we are reminded that our faith has deep roots. The courage and trust of the people in 2 Maccabees can still teach us something today.

Click on a link below for more information and resources for a specific reading.

32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

Faith Over Fear

In 2 Maccabees 7:1-2, 9-14, a mother and her seven sons are arrested and forced to break God’s law. They refuse to give in, even when threatened with death. Each son stands firm, trusting that God will raise them up again. They are willing to suffer because they believe in life after death.

As the sons are killed one by one, they speak with courage. They remind their enemies that God will judge all people. The mother watches her sons die but stays strong in her faith. Their story is a witness to trust in God, even in great suffering.

Selections from the Second Book of Maccabees are also read at weekday Masses:

• Tuesday of the 33rd Week in Ordinary Time I – 2 Maccabees 6:18-31: The Courage of Eleazar
• Wednesday of the 33rd Week in Ordinary Time I – 2 Maccabees 7:1, 20-31: The Faithful Mother and Her Seven Sons

A New Beginning and a Look Back

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz introduces the book of 2 Maccabees by pointing out that it’s the last book before the New Testament. He explains that 2 Maccabees chapter 1 begins with two letters to the Jews in Egypt, inviting them to join in celebrating the feast of the temple’s purification.

Fr. Mike highlights how the book opens with a look back at events already told in 1 Maccabees, especially the rededication of the temple. He notes how this first chapter ties the story of Hanukkah to the invitation for others to join the celebration on the 25th of Chislev.

He also shares the unusual story about Nehemiah finding a hidden fire that had turned into a thick liquid. When exposed to sunlight, it became fire again. Fr. Mike sees this as a symbol for how God’s people, though exiled and quiet for a time, were reignited in faith when they returned.

Fr. Mike reflects on how the letter invites the Jewish people to remember what God has done and to keep the traditions alive. He compares the retelling in 2 Maccabees to how Deuteronomy reviews past events to guide the present.

The Hidden Ark and a Shortened Story

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 2 Maccabees chapter 2. He focuses on the story of the prophet Jeremiah hiding the tent, the altar, and the Ark of the Covenant in a secret cave. This was done to keep the holy items safe during the exile. Fr. Mike points out that this was the last time the ark was seen until Revelation 11–12.

He connects the ark to Mary, saying she is the new ark because she carried Jesus, who is the true high priest, the word of God, and the bread from heaven. He reminds us that after the ark was hidden, the temple was rebuilt, but it was empty. God’s presence no longer rested there in the same way.

Fr. Mike also talks about the compiler’s preface at the end of the chapter. He explains that the full history was originally written in five volumes by Jason of Cyrene. The writer of 2 Maccabees decided to shorten it into one book to highlight how God was working during this time.

He says the focus won’t just be on battles and leaders like Judas Maccabeus, but also on how the people stayed faithful. Some kept the faith, and some fell away. This short version of the story will help readers see how God remained close to his people.

God Fights for His Temple

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 2 Maccabees chapter 3. He shares the story of Heliodorus being sent to take money from the temple treasury in Jerusalem. The people, in fear and sorrow, turned to God in prayer. Fr. Mike points out how God answered by sending a powerful vision that struck down Heliodorus and saved the temple.

Fr. Mike explains that the treasure wasn’t just temple money—it belonged to widows, orphans, and others who trusted the temple to keep it safe. Heliodorus planned to take it, but God stopped him. After being beaten by heavenly messengers, Heliodorus was healed through Onias’ prayers and left in awe of God’s power.

Fr. Mike contrasts this with 1 Maccabees, where God’s role isn’t always shown. In 2 Maccabees, it’s clear that God is active and involved. He calls us to see our own lives like that—not just through daily events, but through moments of grace, even when they’re small.

He connects this story to St. Mary of Egypt, saying that like Heliodorus, she was also stopped by God before going down the wrong path. God sometimes steps in with power. Other times he nudges gently. Either way, God is present and watching over his people.

Corruption in the Temple

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares how 2 Maccabees chapter 4 tells the story of corruption growing inside Jerusalem. Jason, the brother of Onias, gets the high priesthood by bribing the king. He then builds a gymnasium and pushes Greek customs on the young men. This leads many away from the Jewish faith.

Fr. Mike points out that the biggest danger wasn’t just from outside enemies. It came from within—men in power choosing Greek culture over God’s law. He says this helped explain why the Maccabees would soon rise up. The problem wasn’t just political. It was deeply spiritual.

He also reflects on how people like Menelaus and Jason used their religious titles for selfish gain. Instead of protecting the faith, they used it to gain power and money. This betrayal from within hurt the people and dishonored the temple.

Fr. Mike reminds listeners that just like in 2 Maccabees, corruption can start small and spread quickly. It’s a warning about how faith can be weakened when leaders forget what really matters. God’s people needed someone faithful to stand up—and soon, that would be Judas Maccabeus.

Temple Attacked, Hope Remains

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 2 Maccabees chapter 5. He shares how Jason tried to take back control of Jerusalem but failed and ended up dying in disgrace. Fr. Mike says Jason’s fall shows how turning against your own people brings only ruin.

Fr. Mike talks about the horror of Antiochus storming the city and killing thousands. The temple was robbed and defiled. But Fr. Mike explains that this suffering came because the people had turned away from God. It was a punishment, but it would not last forever.

He points out that God did not choose the temple for its own sake, but for the sake of his people. Because of that, when the people are restored, the temple will be restored too. This gave the people hope, even in the middle of violence and loss.

At the end of the chapter, Fr. Mike notes how Judas Maccabeus and a small group escaped into the wilderness. This moment marks the beginning of resistance. It also shows that faith still survived, even in hiding.

Faithful to the End

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 2 Maccabees chapter 6. He explains how the Jewish people were being forced to abandon their faith. They could not keep the Sabbath or follow the Law. Some were even killed for obeying God’s commands.

Fr. Mike focuses on the story of Eleazar, a 90-year-old scribe. He was told to pretend to eat forbidden meat to save his life. Instead, he chose to die rather than give a bad example to others. Fr. Mike says this shows the danger of scandal—leading others into sin.

Eleazar’s courage stood out. He didn’t want to appear like he had turned away from God. Fr. Mike reminds us that our actions can lead others to faith—or away from it. Eleazar chose faith and truth, even though it cost him his life.

Fr. Mike points out how Eleazar’s death gave hope and strength to others. He calls it a powerful witness. In times of suffering, God may allow trials to correct us, not destroy us. Fr. Mike encourages us to trust in God’s mercy even when things are hard.

A Family Who Would Not Give In

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 2 Maccabees chapter 7. He tells the story of a mother and her seven sons who were tortured and killed for refusing to break God’s law. Fr. Mike says they could have lived if they had just eaten pork, but they would not give in. They chose to die rather than disobey.

Fr. Mike points out how strong their faith was. Each son believed in life after death. They trusted that God would raise them again. Their mother also believed this and encouraged each one to stay faithful.

He says this story shows the power of witness. Unlike 1 Maccabees, which focuses on warriors, 2 Maccabees shows people giving their lives to honor God. Fr. Mike says this kind of courage reminds us to stay faithful, even when it’s hard.

At the end, Fr. Mike shares how the book gives a clear message about hope beyond this life. It teaches that God watches over his people and gives them strength. These martyrs show us that a short life with God is better than a long life without him.

God Fights for His People

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 2 Maccabees chapter 8. He explains how Judas Maccabeus gathers his followers to fight against the Gentile army. Fr. Mike says they prayed for help, and God showed mercy by turning their punishment into protection.

Fr. Mike points out that this version of the story, unlike 1 Maccabees, shows how much God was involved. The people didn’t just fight bravely. They trusted that God would defend them. Their hope came from remembering how God had helped their ancestors.

He highlights that even in suffering, the people could say, “God is with us.” They saw God’s justice in their past pain and his mercy in their new strength. Fr. Mike says it’s hard to know what God is doing in the moment, but we can always trust that he is present and working.

At the end of the chapter, Nicanor, who wanted to sell the Jews into slavery, was forced to flee. Fr. Mike says even Nicanor had to admit that the Jews had a true Defender—God himself. This victory gave hope and reminded the people that faithfulness brings protection.

The Fall of Antiochus

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 2 Maccabees chapter 9. He tells how Antiochus Epiphanes is struck down with a painful illness after planning to destroy Jerusalem. His body rots while he’s still alive, and no one wants to carry him because of the stench.

Fr. Mike says this shows that God himself defeated Antiochus. Even though the king later begged for mercy and promised to honor the Jews, it was too late. He was only trying to escape punishment, not truly repent.

Fr. Mike points out that 2 Maccabees clearly shows God’s hand in the story. God is not far away—he is active. That’s different from 1 Maccabees, which focuses more on battles and leaders.

He ends by saying that suffering doesn’t mean God has left us. Even in pain or loss, God is still present. He encourages listeners to remember that they are not alone.

Victory and Trust in God

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 2 Maccabees chapter 10. He shares how Judas Maccabeus and his followers, with God’s help, took back the temple. They tore down the false altars and rededicated the sanctuary. This is the moment that begins the celebration of Hanukkah.

Fr. Mike explains that this victory was not just about bravery. It was about trusting in the Lord. He says the people had courage because they believed God was with them. Their success came from faith and not from rage, which guided their enemies.

He reminds us that battles are not always physical. We also face spiritual battles today. Fr. Mike says we must ask if we’re fighting for God or just for ourselves.

Fr. Mike closes by saying God is near and still fights for his people. He calls us to stay close to the Lord and seek His will in everything we do.

God Fights with His People

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 2 Maccabees chapter 11. He shares how Lysaeus brought a huge army to crush the Jews, but God helped Judas Maccabeus and his men win a great victory. A horseman in white appeared to lead them, and Fr. Mike says this shows God was with them in battle.

Fr. Mike explains that even though God sent help, the people still had to fight. They rushed in like lions, ready to defend their home and faith. He says this reminds us that God works with us, not just for us.

He compares it to our daily lives. God is present, but we still have to act. Fr. Mike says we must be God’s hands and feet in the world.

At the end, he reflects on how God’s people trusted Him and were willing to fight for what was right. Fr. Mike reminds us that God is always near, helping us stand strong in tough times.

Prayers for the Dead and the Hope of Resurrection

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares about 2 Maccabees chapter 12. He highlights the battles Judas Maccabeus fought and how God helped the Jews win. Judas gave credit to the Lord and trusted Him during the fight.

Fr. Mike focuses on one important part—when the soldiers find idols hidden on the bodies of the fallen Jewish men. This showed that the men had sinned. Judas took up a collection and sent it to Jerusalem for a sin offering. Fr. Mike explains this is one of the earliest examples of praying for the dead.

He says this moment shows the belief in the resurrection. If the dead could not rise, there would be no reason to pray for them. Fr. Mike connects this to the Catholic teaching about purgatory, where souls are made ready for heaven.

Fr. Mike adds that many Christians believed in this from the early Church. He explains how prayers help those who have died in friendship with God but are not yet fully ready for heaven. God wants to make our hearts clean so we can love Him completely.

God Wins the Battle

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 2 Maccabees chapter 13. He tells how Judas and his men trusted God when Antiochus came with a huge army. They fasted and prayed for three days before going into battle.

Fr. Mike points out how Judas put the fight in God’s hands. They gave the battle cry “God’s victory” and attacked at night. Even though they were outnumbered, they won because God protected them.

He also talks about how Antiochus was shaken by the Jews’ courage and tried to make peace. Fr. Mike notes that the king even offered sacrifices and honored the temple before returning home.

Fr. Mike says this chapter shows how God helps his people when they stay faithful. It’s a reminder to trust God, pray, and never give up, even when things seem impossible.

Betrayal, War, and a Bloody End

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares about 2 Maccabees chapter 14. He explains how Alchemus, a former high priest, tries to turn King Demetrius against Judas by calling him a troublemaker. The king sends Nicanor to kill Judas and support Alchemus.

At first, Nicanor and Judas become friends. They make a peace deal, and Nicanor even encourages Judas to marry and settle down. But Alchemus ruins it by telling the king that Nicanor is a traitor. The king sends a new order, and Nicanor turns cold toward Judas.

Judas senses danger and goes into hiding. Nicanor storms into the temple and swears to destroy it if Judas is not handed over. The priests pray for God to protect the holy place.

Fr. Mike also describes the death of Razis, who chooses to die rather than be captured. He tries to take his life but suffers a long, painful end. Fr. Mike says the scene is graphic and messy, but God is still present in the middle of all the chaos.

Fighting for What Matters Most

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 2 Maccabees chapter 15. He describes how Judas Maccabeus leads the people into battle, trusting in God’s help rather than in weapons. Judas shares a vision of the prophet Jeremiah giving him a holy sword. This gives the people courage to stand and fight.

Fr. Mike highlights the heart of their motivation. The people were not fighting mainly for family or freedom. Their biggest concern was the temple, the holy place where God was worshipped. They wanted to keep it pure and honor the Lord.

Fr. Mike invites us to think about what matters most in our own lives. What if we placed God first, even above the people we love? He connects this to how Jesus calls us to follow him fully.

As the Old Testament ends in this episode, Fr. Mike reflects on the deep desire to worship God with clean hearts. He encourages us to keep the Eucharist and the Mass at the center of our lives.

The Bible

Want to learn more about the Bible and how it fits together? There’s a lot to explore, and it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we put together a simple guide to help.

Visit our page on Understanding the Bible to get started. It explains the different parts of the Bible, who wrote them, and why they matter. It’s easy to read and made for people who want to grow in faith.

Is 2 Maccabees in all Bibles?

No. 2 Maccabees is in Catholic and Orthodox Bibles, but not in most Protestant Bibles. Catholics believe it is part of the full Bible.

Who wrote 2 Maccabees?

The writer is not named. He says it is a summary of a longer work by Jason of Cyrene.

What is the main message of 2 Maccabees?

The book shows the importance of staying faithful to God. It also teaches about resurrection, prayer for the dead, and courage in hard times.

Why do Catholics pray for the dead?

2 Maccabees 12 tells about people praying for those who died in sin. This is one reason why the Church teaches us to pray for souls in purgatory.

Is 2 Maccabees a history book?

It tells real events, but it is not just history. It also explains the meaning behind the events and shows how God helped His people.

Why is 2 Maccabees important for Catholics today?

It reminds us to be strong in our faith. It also helps us understand why we honor martyrs and pray for the dead.

2 Maccabees tells the story of faithful Jews who suffered under a Greek king named Antiochus. He tried to stop them from living out their faith. Many were killed for following God’s law. Some gave in, but others stood strong. This book shares the stories of those who chose to stay true to God, even when it cost them their lives.

One of the most powerful parts of the book is the story of a mother and her seven sons. Each of them is put to death for refusing to eat food that went against God’s law. They believe that God will raise them again. Their courage is a witness to the power of faith.

2 Maccabees also teaches about praying for the dead. When some soldiers die in sin, their friends offer prayers and sacrifices for them. This is one reason Catholics believe in praying for the souls in purgatory.

The book ends with the victories of Judas Maccabeus. He leads the people in battle, prays for help, and cleanses the Temple. His story reminds us that God stays close to those who trust Him. The book is full of pain and hope, showing that even in the worst times, faith matters.

Take some time this week to read 2 Maccabees. It’s full of stories that challenge us to be brave in our own faith. Whether you are young or old, this book can speak to your heart and help you think about how you live out your beliefs each day.

After you read it, come back and share what stood out to you in the comments. Did a certain story move you? Did something surprise you? We’d love to hear what you think and how this book speaks to your life.