(Last words) My children, be courageous and grow strong in the law, for by it you will gain honour.

‘Here is your brother Simeon who, I know, is wise in counsel; always listen to him; he shall be your father. Judas Maccabeus has been a mighty warrior from his youth; he shall command the army for you and fight the battle against the peoples.You shall rally around you all who observe the law, and avenge the wrong done to your people. Pay back the Gentiles in full, and obey the commands of the law.’

1 Maccabees 2,64-68 (NRSV).