Previous | Next

Maccabees, The

A priestly family which under the leadership of Mathathias initiated the revolt against the tyranny of Antiochus IV Epiphanes, King of Syria, and after securing Jewish independence ruled the commonwealth till overthrown by Herod the Great.

Submitted in section: Religion & Spirituality: Christianity: Denominations: Catholicism: Reference: Catholic Encyclopedia: M: Maccabees, The