Then the king sent Nicanor, one of his honorable princes, a man who hated Israel and was their enemy, and commanded him to destroy the people.
ExplanationCommentary
Verse 26. Enemy. He was one of the most terrible: yet Judas at last slew him. verse 43 and 2 Maccabees 15:28. Worthington.—Nicanor was high in the king’s favour, and had fled with him from Rome. Jos. Ant. xii. 17.—He first sent three ambassadors to Judas, in answer to what Simon had proposed; and peace was concluded. Alcimus hereupon accused Nicanor, and the king sent him an order to seize Judas. While he was endeavouring to comply, Judas escaped. He was again much exposed; (verse 29.) and therefore collected his army, and fought near Jerusalem. 2 B. 14:15. Usher, A. 3842. Calmet.
See 2 Maccabees 14:12.