1 Maccabees 4:36-60 - Cleansing and Dedication of the Temple

Context

• Setting: The passage describes the events after a military victory led by Judas Maccabeus.
• Objective: Focuses on the cleansing and rededication of the Jewish temple in Jerusalem.

Key Events

1. Call for Cleansing

• Judas and his brothers recognize their enemies have been defeated.
• Decide to cleanse and rededicate the sanctuary.

2. The State of the Sanctuary

• The army gathers and goes to Mount Zion.
• The sanctuary is found deserted:
  • Altar disrespected.
  • Gates burned.
  • Bushes growing in the open courts.
  • Priest chambers in ruins.
• Reaction: The people mourn, tear clothes, sprinkle ashes, and cry out to heaven.

3. Preparations for Cleansing

• Judas selects soldiers to keep enemies at bay during the cleansing.
• Chooses blameless priests devoted to the Law for the task.
• Polluted stones removed to an unclean place.
• Discussion on rebuilding the altar due to its pollution.

4. Reconstruction

• Decision to dismantle the polluted altar to avoid shame.
• Stones stored until a prophet arises to guide their use.
• Construction of a new altar using unfinished stones as prescribed by the Law.
• Restoration of the sanctuary and temple interior, including courtyards.
• Creation and installation of new holy equipment (lampstand, incense altar, table).
• Completion of temple restoration, including lighting lamps and placing bread.

5. Dedication Ceremony

• Occurs on the 25th day of Kislev (November-December 164 BCE).
• New altar dedicated with songs and musical instruments.
• Sacrifices offered in accordance with the Law.
• Celebration involves worship and blessing heaven.
• Rededication extends for eight days with continual sacrifices.
• Temple is decorated with gold crowns and shields.

6. Establishment of an Annual Observance

• Judas and assembly decree annual celebration of the altar's dedication for eight days starting 25th of Kislev.
• Celebration to be observed with joy and happiness.

7. Strengthening Defenses

• High walls and strong towers built around Mount Zion to prevent future desecration by Gentiles.

Conclusion

• The passage highlights themes of restoration, religious devotion, and communal celebration.
• It marks a significant historical and religious event for the Jewish people, establishing the annual festival of Hanukkah.