"Arrogance and reproach have now become strong, it is a time of ruin and furious anger. 2 50 Now, my children, show zeal for the law, and give your lives for the covenant of our fathers. 2 51 "Remember the deeds of the fathers, which they did in their generations; and receive great honor and an everlasting name. 2 52 Was not Abraham found faithful when tested, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness? 2 53 Joseph in the time of his distress kept the commandment, and became lord of Egypt. 2 54 Phinehas our father, because he was deeply zealous, received the covenant of everlasting priesthood. 2 55 Joshua, because he fulfilled the command, became a judge in Israel. 2 56 Caleb, because he testified in the assembly, received an inheritance in the land. 2 57 David, because he was merciful, inherited the throne of the kingdom for ever. 2 58 Elijah because of great zeal for the law was taken up into heaven. 2 59 Hannaniah, Azariah, and Mishael believed and were saved from the flame. 2 60 Daniel because of his innocence was delivered from the mouth of the lions.
2 61 "And so observe, from generation to generation, that none who put their trust in him will lack strength. 2 62 Do not fear the words of a sinner, for his splendor will turn into dung and worms. 2 63 Today he will be exalted, but tomorrow he will not be found, because he has returned to the dust, and his plans will perish. 2 64 My children, be courageous and grow strong in the law, for by it you will gain honor.
2 65 "Now behold, I know that Simeon your brother is wise in counsel; always listen to him; he shall be your father. 2 66 Judas Maccabeus has been a mighty warrior from his youth; he shall command the army for you and fight the battle against the peoples. 2 67 You shall rally about you all who observe the law, and avenge the wrong done to your people. 2 68 Pay back the Gentiles in full, and heed what the law commands."
2 69 Then he blessed them, and was gathered to his fathers. 2 70 He died in the one hundred and forty-sixth year and was buried in the tomb of his fathers at Modein. And all Israel mourned for him with great lamentation.