heard that Philip who had been left as chancellor in Antioch had become reckless, was confounded, made to the Jews an overture of peace, submitted himself and swore to acknowledge all their rights, came to terms with them and offered sacrifice, honored the sanctuary and the place,
ExplanationCommentary
Verse 23. Overcome. Hence Eleazar signalized himself. 1 B. 6:43.—Rebelled. Lysias persuaded him to treat the just exertions of Philip in this light. He was himself the usurper of the regency. He easily persuaded the young prince that peace was now most expedient; and conditions were granted to the Jews, which would have been very advantageous if they had been observed. But the king having offered sacrifice by the hands of the priests, and seeing the strength of the wall round Sion, ordered them to be demolished. Calmet.