Hasmonean Maccabean Revolt Was it right to revolt
The Hasmonean revolt was an ideological and political conflict that led to a significant independence for the Jews of Palestine. The revolt, led by Mattathias and his sons, was a serious struggle for Jewish religious independence and autonomy. ... For this reason, it was necessary for the Hasmoneans to organize a revolt for the purpose of ensuring religious freedom for the Jews. The Hasmonean revolt was in response to the heavy onslaught of Hellenistic culture and religion. ... The Seleucid king during the first part of the Hasmonean revolt was Antiochus Epiphanes IV (He added “Epiphanes” – meaning “God made manifest”). ... This was the beginning of the Hasmonean (or Maccabean) revolt. In hiding, the Hasmonean family and their followers began organizing their rebellion against the Seleucids. ... These Hasidim used their Judaic knowledge to help justify and gain support for their revolt. ... The success of the revolt forced Anitochus to finally give the Jews religious independence. Throughout their conquest (described previously), the Maccabean revolt has been criticized for many different reasons. ... When the Maccabees began their revolt, they journeyed through Persian towns and forced circumcision upon all Jewish boys. ... Moreover, the Maccabees were correct to revolt, allowing the Jews to accomplish future goals, involving their land and their very existence.