Day 291: The Rise of King Alexander (2026)
October 18, 2026
AI Summary
5 min readThe Rise of King Alexander
In 1 Maccabees chapter 10, the political landscape of Judea shifts dramatically as two rival kings—Alexander Epiphanes and Demetrius—compete for the allegiance of Jonathan and the Jewish people. The episode centers on a stark lesson in discernment: Demetrius offers Jonathan the deal of a lifetime—complete tax forgiveness, debt cancellation, freedom for captives, and military honors—yet the Jews refuse him entirely. They remember that this same king had previously sent Bacchides to kill Jonathan's brother and oppress the nation. Alexander, by contrast, offers only a few complimentary words and the appointment of Jonathan as high priest, but he had been the first to speak peaceably. The Jews choose Alexander, and their choice proves wise when Demetrius is crushed in battle.
The Contest for Jonathan's Loyalty
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What you'll learn
- 1 Day 291: The Rise of King Alexander (2026)
- 2 (00:03) **Episode Opening** - Fr. Mike introduces the day's readings: 1 Maccabees 10, Sirach 26-27, Proverbs 23:5-8
- 3 (01:00) **Alexander Epiphanes Lands and Demetrius Responds** - Alexander, son of Antiochus, occupies Ptolemais and begins his reign as Demetrius assembles an army
- 4 (01:43) **Jonathan Returns to Jerusalem** - Jonathan reads Demetrius's letter publicly, alarming the garrison in the citadel
- 5 (02:24) **Alexander Appoints Jonathan High Priest** - Hearing of Demetrius's promises, Alexander writes to Jonathan offering friendship and the high priesthood
- 6 (03:13) **Demetrius Counter-Offers with Extraordinary Concessions** - Demetrius, grieved by Alexander's move, writes to the Jewish nation offering unprecedented benefits
- 7 (06:36) **Jonathan Rejects Demetrius's Deal** - Jonathan and the people remember Demetrius's past wrongs and refuse to trust him
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Guests on this episode
Show Notes
Fr. Mike breaks down the dramatic events from our reading of 1 Maccabees today, including; Jonathan's new role as high priest, Demetrius' defeat in battle, and King Alexander Epiphanes formidable alliance with Egypt formed by marrying Cleopatra. In Sirach, Fr. Mike reminds us that the good qualities wives are called to possess are also applicable to husbands. Today we read 1 Maccabees 10, Sirach 26-27, and Proverbs 23:5-8.
For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.
Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
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