Who was Antiochus IV Epiphanes?

Antiochus IV Epiphanes was the king of the Seleucid Empire, reigning from 175 BC until his death in 164 BC. His reign was marked by significant events, including attempts to conquer Ptolemaic Egypt, his persecution of Jews in Judea and Samaria, and the subsequent Maccabean Revolt.

What were the dates of Antiochus IV Epiphanes' reign?

Antiochus IV Epiphanes reigned as the king of the Seleucid Empire from September 3, 175 BC, until his death in November or December of 164 BC.

Who was Antiochus IV Epiphanes' father, and what was his title?

Antiochus IV Epiphanes was the son of Antiochus III the Great, who was the king of the Seleucid Empire. Antiochus III was a significant ruler who expanded the empire's territories.

What was Antiochus IV Epiphanes' original name?

Antiochus IV Epiphanes was originally named Mithridates. He likely changed his name either after the death of his elder brother, also named Antiochus, or upon ascending the throne himself.

Why was Antiochus IV Epiphanes' claim to the throne considered controversial?

Antiochus IV's accession was controversial because he was seen by some as a usurper. The legitimate heir should have been his young nephew, Demetrius I, who was being held as a hostage in Rome at the time. Antiochus seized the opportunity to declare himself king, rallying support from the Greek ruling class in Antioch.

What impact did Antiochus IV's controversial succession have on the Seleucid Empire?

Antiochus IV's seizure of the throne set a destabilizing precedent for the Seleucid Empire. In subsequent generations, numerous claimants attempted to usurp the throne, which significantly contributed to the empire's eventual collapse due to internal power struggles.

What nickname did Antiochus IV's detractors give him, and why?

Due to his often eccentric behavior and capricious actions, some contemporaries nicknamed Antiochus IV 'Epimanes,' which translates to 'The Mad.' This was a play on his chosen title, 'Epiphanes,' meaning 'God Manifest.'

How did Antiochus IV Epiphanes attempt to cultivate a positive image as a ruler?

Antiochus IV cultivated an image as an extravagant and generous ruler. He distributed money to the common people in Antioch, gave unexpected gifts, contributed to temples in Athens and Delos, held opulent banquets, and organized massive military parades. He also engaged in public activities, such as appearing in bathhouses and applying for municipal offices, which contributed to his eccentric reputation.

What was Antiochus IV's relationship with the Roman Republic?

Initially, Antiochus IV sought to maintain good relations with Rome. He sent an embassy in 173 BC to address unpaid war indemnities and secured a renewed treaty of friendship, partly due to Rome's alliance with his supporter, Eumenes II of Pergamum. However, Roman intervention later curtailed his ambitions in Egypt.

Describe Antiochus IV's campaigns in Ptolemaic Egypt.

Antiochus IV launched two major campaigns against Ptolemaic Egypt. In the first, around 170 BC, he defeated the Egyptian forces, conquered much of the country, and captured King Ptolemy VI Philometor, whom he allowed to rule as a puppet king. In 168 BC, he launched a second invasion, but his advance was halted by a Roman ambassador who delivered an ultimatum demanding his withdrawal.

What significant event occurred during Antiochus IV's second invasion of Egypt in 168 BC?

During his second invasion of Egypt in 168 BC, Antiochus IV was confronted by the Roman ambassador Gaius Popillius Laenas near Alexandria. Laenas drew a circle in the sand and demanded an immediate commitment from Antiochus to withdraw his forces from Egypt and Cyprus, under threat of war with Rome. This event, known as the 'Day of Eleusis,' forced Antiochus to retreat.

How did Antiochus IV Epiphanes change Seleucid policy towards Judea?

Previously, the Seleucids had generally respected Jewish culture and institutions. Antiochus IV drastically reversed this policy, seemingly after a dispute over the High Priesthood or a crushed revolt. He initiated a period of persecution against the Jews.

What led to the crisis in Jerusalem involving High Priest Jason and Menelaus?

In 171 BC, Antiochus IV deposed the High Priest Jason and appointed Menelaus in his place, who had offered a substantial bribe for the office. Later, in 168 BC, while Antiochus was campaigning in Egypt, a rumor of his death led Jason to attack Jerusalem and force Menelaus to flee. Upon his return, Antiochus was enraged by this challenge to his authority and the rejection of his chosen High Priest.

What actions did Antiochus IV take after returning from Egypt and suppressing the unrest in Jerusalem?

Enraged by the events in Judea, Antiochus IV attacked Jerusalem, restored Menelaus to the position of High Priest, and ordered the execution of many Jews. He then issued decrees aimed at suppressing Jewish religious practices and enforcing Hellenistic culture, including the desecration of the Temple.

According to 2 Maccabees, what was the scale of the violence in Jerusalem following Antiochus IV's return from Egypt?

According to the Book of 2 Maccabees, Antiochus IV's assault on Jerusalem resulted in a massacre. Within three days, eighty thousand Jews were reportedly killed, with forty thousand dying violently and another forty thousand sold into slavery.

How did Antiochus IV attempt to Hellenize the Jewish religion?

Antiochus IV outlawed traditional Jewish religious rites and traditions. He forcibly transformed the Temple in Jerusalem into a site for a syncretic Greek-Jewish cult that included the worship of Zeus. Historical accounts also mention him sacrificing a swine at the Temple and forcing Jews to consume pork.

What was the 'Acra' established by Antiochus IV in Jerusalem?

The Acra was a Greek military citadel established by Antiochus IV in Jerusalem between 168-167 BC. It served as a stronghold for the pro-Greek faction of Hellenized Jews and housed a Greek military garrison, symbolizing Seleucid control.

What major revolt was triggered by Antiochus IV's actions in Judea?

Antiochus IV's decrees and the desecration of the Temple triggered a widespread revolt against his rule, which became known as the Maccabean Revolt. This rebellion was a significant event in Jewish history.

What is the modern scholarly view on the nature of the Maccabean Revolt?

While traditionally viewed as a national resistance against foreign oppression, modern scholars suggest that Antiochus IV may have been intervening in an existing civil war between traditionalist Jews and the Hellenized Jews in Jerusalem. His actions exacerbated and transformed this internal conflict into a broader revolt.

What is the connection between Antiochus IV and the Book of Daniel?

Scholars believe the revolt and Antiochus IV's reign likely inspired the writing of the Book of Daniel. The 'King of the North' figure in the book is widely interpreted as a reference to Antiochus IV, and his actions against Jerusalem influenced later depictions of the Antichrist.

Who invaded from the east during Antiochus IV's final years?

Mithridates I of Parthia took advantage of Antiochus IV's focus on western conflicts and invaded from the east. He captured the city of Herat in 167 BC, disrupting a key trade route and effectively dividing the Greek world.

What were the circumstances of Antiochus IV's death?

Antiochus IV died in Isfahan in 164 BC during his campaign against the Parthians. He had achieved some initial successes, including reconquering Armenia, but failed in an attack on Persepolis. His death occurred on his return journey.

What are the differing accounts of Antiochus IV's death?

Ancient sources offer various accounts. Some suggest he died from a divinely inflicted illness after attacking a temple of Nanaya in Persia, possibly as punishment for his impiety. Jewish sources attribute his death to divine retribution for his persecution of the Jews. There is a discrepancy between 1 Maccabees, which places his death after the temple's reconsecration, and 2 Maccabees, which places it before.

How is Antiochus IV Epiphanes remembered in Jewish tradition?

Antiochus IV is remembered as a major villain and persecutor in Jewish traditions, particularly those associated with Hanukkah, such as the Books of the Maccabees. Rabbinical sources refer to him as 'harasha' (the wicked).

What conclusion did The Jewish Encyclopedia draw about the historical portrayal of Antiochus IV?

The Jewish Encyclopedia concluded that the portrayal of Antiochus IV as a cruel and vainglorious ruler who attempted to impose Hellenic culture on his subjects was likely correct, as both Jewish and non-Jewish ancient sources agreed on this characterization. It also noted that he likely did not fully appreciate the 'true essence' of the Hellenic culture he promoted.

What divine epithets did Antiochus IV use, and why was this significant?

Antiochus IV was the first Seleucid king to use divine epithets on his coins, such as 'Theos Epiphanes' (God Manifest) and 'Nikephoros' (Bringer of Victory). This practice may have been inspired by Hellenistic Bactrian kings or built upon his father's efforts to codify a ruler cult within the empire.

Who is considered the primary ancient non-Jewish source for information on Antiochus IV Epiphanes?

The Greek historian Polybius is considered the most important ancient non-Jewish source for information on Antiochus IV Epiphanes. However, his accounts are often negative and may have been influenced by his friendship with Antiochus IV's rival, Demetrius I.

What is the modern perspective on the historical reliability of accounts about Antiochus IV?

Some modern historians suggest that the consistently negative depictions of Antiochus IV in ancient sources, including those by Polybius and the Maccabean books, should be viewed with skepticism. Factors like political rivalries (Polybius's friendship with Demetrius I) and potential elitism might have colored these accounts. Some evidence, like Alexander Balas claiming to be Antiochus IV's son, suggests he might have been remembered favorably by some segments of the population.

Who succeeded Antiochus IV Epiphanes as King of the Seleucid Empire?

Antiochus V Eupator succeeded Antiochus IV Epiphanes as the King of the Seleucid Empire. He was a young son of Antiochus IV.

What was the approximate age of Antiochus IV Epiphanes at his death?

Antiochus IV Epiphanes was born around 215 BC and died in 164 BC, making him approximately 50 to 51 years old at the time of his death.

Who was Antiochus IV Epiphanes' wife?

Antiochus IV Epiphanes' wife was Laodice IV.

Who were the known children of Antiochus IV Epiphanes?

Antiochus IV Epiphanes had several children, including Antiochus V Eupator and Laodice VI. He may have also fathered Antiochis and possibly Alexander Balas and another daughter named Laodice.

What religion did Antiochus IV Epiphanes follow?

Antiochus IV Epiphanes followed Greek polytheism, which was the dominant religious system in the Hellenistic world at the time.

What is the 'Abomination of Desolation' mentioned in relation to Antiochus IV?

The 'Abomination of Desolation' is a term associated with Antiochus IV's actions in Jerusalem, specifically his desecration of the Second Jewish Temple and its rededication to the worship of Zeus. This event is a key element in the narrative of the Maccabean Revolt and is referenced in biblical texts.

What historical period does the reign of Antiochus IV Epiphanes fall within?

The reign of Antiochus IV Epiphanes falls within the Hellenistic period, a time following the conquests of Alexander the Great when Greek culture and influence spread throughout the eastern Mediterranean and Near East.

What major religious festival is directly linked to the events of Antiochus IV's reign?

The major religious festival directly linked to the events during Antiochus IV's reign is Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights. It commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem after the Maccabean Revolt.

What was the nature of the Seleucid Empire during Antiochus IV's rule?

The Seleucid Empire was a large Hellenistic state founded by Seleucus I Nicator, one of Alexander the Great's generals. It encompassed vast territories in the Near East, and during Antiochus IV's reign, it faced internal succession issues and external pressures from Rome and Parthia.

How did Antiochus IV's actions in Judea differ from previous Seleucid rulers?

Unlike previous Seleucid rulers who generally respected local customs and religions, Antiochus IV actively sought to suppress Jewish religious practices and impose Hellenistic culture. This aggressive policy marked a significant departure and led to widespread conflict.

What was the significance of Antiochus IV's military parade at Daphne?

The massive military parade Antiochus IV held at Daphne, a suburb of Antioch, showcased his Western military forces. Such displays were part of his efforts to project power and maintain his image as a strong ruler.

What role did the Treaty of Apamea play in Antiochus IV's early life?

The Treaty of Apamea, concluded in 188 BC between Rome and the Seleucid Empire, required Antiochus III to hand over his son, Antiochus IV, as a hostage to the Roman Republic. This treaty significantly impacted Antiochus IV's early life and his eventual path to the throne.

What was the 'Day of Eleusis' and its significance?

The 'Day of Eleusis' refers to the confrontation in 168 BC where the Roman ambassador Gaius Popillius Laenas forced Antiochus IV to withdraw his forces from Egypt and Cyprus under threat of war. This event is often seen as a major humiliation for Antiochus and a demonstration of Roman dominance in the region.

How did the Book of Daniel portray Antiochus IV Epiphanes?

The Book of Daniel, believed by many scholars to have been written during or shortly after Antiochus IV's reign, portrays a villainous figure known as the 'King of the North.' This character is widely interpreted as representing Antiochus IV, depicting him as an oppressor of Jerusalem and the Jewish people.

What is the historical debate surrounding the motivation behind Antiochus IV's persecution of the Jews?

While traditionally seen as a religious persecution, some modern scholars propose that Antiochus IV's actions might have been influenced by political considerations, possibly intervening in a Jewish civil war between Hellenizing and traditionalist factions. His goal may have been to consolidate Seleucid control and enforce loyalty rather than solely suppress Judaism.

What was the 'abomination of desolation' mentioned in 1 Maccabees 6:7?

The 'abomination of desolation' mentioned in 1 Maccabees 6:7 is interpreted by some scholars to refer to an event related to the desecration of the Temple in Jerusalem by Antiochus IV. The exact nature of this 'abomination' is debated, with some suggesting it might have been linked to civil unrest rather than solely a foreign imposition.

What does the name 'Epiphanes' mean, and why did Antiochus IV adopt it?

The name 'Epiphanes' means 'God Manifest.' Antiochus IV adopted this epithet, likely to enhance his divine authority and legitimacy as king, aligning himself with the gods, a practice common among Hellenistic rulers.

How did Antiochus IV's reign contribute to the eventual decline of the Seleucid Empire?

Antiochus IV's reign contributed to the empire's decline through several factors: his controversial succession weakened dynastic stability, his costly wars strained the treasury, and his persecution of the Jews ignited the prolonged Maccabean Revolt, diverting resources and attention. Furthermore, his actions highlighted the growing power of Rome, which would eventually dominate the region.

What was the significance of Antiochus IV's intervention in the succession disputes of Ptolemaic Egypt?

Antiochus IV intervened in Ptolemaic Egypt's succession disputes, initially capturing King Ptolemy VI Philometor and later invading again. His actions aimed to expand Seleucid influence and control over Egypt, but were ultimately thwarted by Roman intervention, demonstrating the limits of his power against the rising Roman Republic.

What is the historical significance of the coinage issued by Antiochus IV Epiphanes?

The coinage issued by Antiochus IV is significant because he was the first Seleucid king to prominently feature divine epithets like 'Theos Epiphanes' (God Manifest) and 'Nikephoros' (Bringer of Victory). This practice reflected his efforts to bolster his royal authority and divine status.

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Biography

Royal Ascent

Born circa 215 BC, Antiochus IV Epiphanes was a son of King Antiochus III the Great. His path to the throne was marked by political maneuvering and controversy. Originally named Mithridates, he later adopted the name Antiochus. As a political hostage in Rome following the Treaty of Apamea, his accession in 175 BC occurred after the assassination of his brother, Seleucus IV Philopator. With the legitimate heir, Demetrius I, still a hostage in Rome, Antiochus seized the opportunity, securing support from the Greek ruling class in Antioch to claim the kingship. This act contributed to the destabilizing trend of succession disputes within the Seleucid Empire.

Extravagant Rule

Antiochus IV cultivated an image of an extravagant and generous ruler. He was known for distributing money and gifts to the populace, contributing to temples, and hosting opulent banquets. These displays of generosity, while costly to the treasury, were seemingly financed by the empire's tax revenues. His unconventional interactions with commoners, such as appearing in public bathhouses and applying for municipal offices, led some contemporaries to dub him Epimanes ("The Mad"), a deliberate play on his chosen epithet Epiphanes ("God Manifest").

Rise to Power

From Hostage to King

Antiochus, born around 215 BC, was the son of King Antiochus III the Great. His early life involved being a political hostage of the Roman Republic as per the Treaty of Apamea. Following his father's death and his brother Seleucus IV Philopator's succession in 187 BC, Antiochus was exchanged for his nephew, Demetrius I. He resided in Athens until his brother's assassination in 175 BC by the minister Heliodorus. Heliodorus briefly seized control, but Antiochus, with the support of Eumenes II of Pergamum, returned from Athens to Syria. He declared himself king, co-ruling with an infant nephew, Antiochus, who was later likely murdered by Antiochus IV.

Wars and Diplomacy

Campaigns in Egypt

Antiochus IV initially maintained diplomatic relations with Rome, renewing a treaty of friendship in 173 BC. However, his reign was significantly defined by his military campaigns against Ptolemaic Egypt. In 170 BC, he launched an invasion, defeating Egyptian forces and capturing King Ptolemy VI Philometor. He installed Ptolemy VI as a puppet ruler in Memphis, but Alexandria then chose Ptolemy VIII Physcon as co-ruler. In 168 BC, Antiochus led a second invasion. His advance was halted by a Roman ambassador, Gaius Popillius Laenas, who delivered an ultimatum from the Roman Senate demanding withdrawal. This event, known as the "Day of Eleusis," forced Antiochus to retreat, though some historians suggest this provided him a convenient exit from a potentially costly siege.

Relations with Rome

Antiochus IV was acutely aware of Rome's growing power and sought to manage relations carefully. His initial embassy to Rome in 173 BC secured a renewed treaty, aided by his alliance with Rome's ally, Eumenes II of Pergamum. The Roman intervention in Egypt in 168 BC, culminating in the ultimatum delivered by Popillius Laenas, demonstrated Rome's dominance in the region and significantly influenced Antiochus's strategic decisions, forcing him to prioritize Roman demands over his territorial ambitions in Egypt.

Eastern Campaigns

Parthian Challenge

While dealing with western affairs, Antiochus IV faced challenges from the east. Mithridates I of Parthia captured Herat in 167 BC, disrupting trade routes. Antiochus recognized this threat but chose to address the situation in Judea first. He led his army east, achieving initial success by capturing Artaxias I and reconquering Armenia. His campaign continued through Ecbatana, where his forces attacked Persepolis but were repelled. Antiochus IV died in Isfahan in 164 BC during this eastern campaign.

Persecution of the Jews

Religious Suppression

Antiochus IV drastically altered the Seleucid policy of religious tolerance towards Judea. Following a dispute over the High Priesthood, he deposed Jason and installed Menelaus. In 168 BC, upon hearing a false report of his death, Jason attacked Jerusalem. Antiochus, returning from Egypt enraged by Roman intervention and the Jewish rejection of Menelaus, sacked Jerusalem, executed many Jews, and issued decrees outlawing Jewish religious practices. The Temple was desecrated and rededicated to Zeus, with forced participation in pagan rites, including the sacrifice of a swine. These actions triggered the Maccabean Revolt.

The Maccabean Revolt

The decrees of Antiochus IV ignited a significant revolt led by the Maccabees. While traditionally viewed as a nationalistic uprising against foreign oppression, modern scholarship suggests Antiochus may have been intervening in an internal civil war between Hellenized and traditionalist Jews. The events of his reign are believed to have inspired the Book of Daniel, portraying him as the "King of the North," and influenced later Christian concepts of the Antichrist.

Final Years and Death

Divine Retribution?

Antiochus IV's final years were marked by his eastern campaign against the Parthians. Various accounts exist regarding his death. Some attribute it to impiety, possibly related to his actions at a temple of Nanaya in Persia. Jewish traditions credit his demise to divine punishment for desecrating the Jerusalem Temple. Second Maccabees vividly describes his death from a painful, incurable disease, with his body rotting while still alive. Rabbinical sources suggest he drowned himself after fleeing from defeats. The differing timelines in 1 and 2 Maccabees regarding his death relative to the Temple's reconsecration have led to scholarly debate.

Legacy

Jewish Tradition

In Jewish tradition, Antiochus IV is remembered as a primary antagonist and persecutor, central to the narrative of Hanukkah. The Books of the Maccabees and the Scroll of Antiochus portray him as "the wicked" ruler who attempted to impose Hellenic culture and pagan worship upon the Jewish people. Historical sources, both Jewish and non-Jewish, generally agree on his cruel and vainglorious nature, though modern scholarship questions the complete impartiality of some ancient accounts.

Divine Epithets

Antiochus IV was the first Seleucid king to prominently feature divine epithets on his coinage, possibly influenced by Bactrian rulers or building upon his father's policies. He adopted titles such as Theos Epiphanes ("God Manifest") and, after his Egyptian campaigns, Nikephoros ("Bringer of Victory"). These titles reflected his ambition and the developing Hellenistic ruler cult.

Historiography

Ancient sources, notably Polybius, present a largely negative view of Antiochus IV, characterizing him as eccentric and capricious. However, historians like Dov Gera argue that Polybius's account may have been influenced by his friendship with Antiochus's rival, Demetrius I, and that Antiochus was a more capable politician than often portrayed. The successful challenge for leadership decades later by Alexander Balas, who claimed to be Antiochus IV's son, suggests Antiochus may have been remembered favorably by some segments of the population.

Jewish Tradition

Persecutor of Faith

Antiochus IV is cast as a villain in Jewish historical accounts, particularly those related to Hanukkah. He is depicted as attempting to force Hellenistic culture and pagan worship upon the Jews, desecrating the Temple in Jerusalem, and outlawing Jewish practices. This portrayal, consistent across Jewish and some non-Jewish sources, highlights his role as a persecutor, though modern analysis suggests a more complex interplay with internal Jewish political factions.

Divine Epithets

"God Manifest"

Antiochus IV pioneered the use of divine epithets on Seleucid coinage, adopting titles such as Theos Epiphanes ("God Manifest") and Nikephoros ("Bringer of Victory"). This practice, possibly influenced by earlier Bactrian rulers or building on his father's policies, signaled his ambition and the growing trend of ruler cults within the Hellenistic world.

Historiography

Interpreting the Past

The historical understanding of Antiochus IV is shaped by ancient sources, primarily Polybius, who offers a critical perspective, and the Books of Maccabees, which portray him negatively. However, historians like Dov Gera suggest that Polybius's accounts may be biased due to his political affiliations. The successful claim of Alexander Balas, identifying himself as Antiochus IV's son, indicates that Antiochus may have retained some popular support, challenging a purely negative historical assessment.

Related Information

Hellenistic Rulers

Antiochus IV was a key figure in the Hellenistic period, a successor to Alexander the Great's empire. His reign intersected with numerous other Hellenistic dynasties and rulers across the Mediterranean and Near East.

Maccabean Revolt

The events surrounding Antiochus IV's religious policies directly led to the Maccabean Revolt, a pivotal moment in Jewish history that is commemorated by the festival of Hanukkah.

Hellenistic rulers
Argeads	Philip II Alexander III the Great Philip III Arrhidaeus Alexander IV
Antipatrids	Cassander Philip IV Alexander V Antipater II Antipater Etesias Sosthenes
Antigonids	Antigonus I Monophthalmus Demetrius I Poliorcetes Antigonus II Gonatas Demetrius II Aetolicus Antigonus III Doson Philip V Perseus Philip VI (pretender)
Ptolemies	Ptolemy I Soter Ptolemy Keraunos Ptolemy II Philadelphus Ptolemy III Euergetes Ptolemy IV Philopator Ptolemy V Epiphanes Cleopatra I Syra (regent) Ptolemy VI Philometor Ptolemy VII Neos Philopator Cleopatra II Philometor Soter Ptolemy VIII Physcon Cleopatra III Ptolemy IX Lathyros Ptolemy X Alexander Berenice III Ptolemy XI Alexander Ptolemy XII Auletes Cleopatra VI Tryphaena Berenice IV Epiphanea Ptolemy XIII Ptolemy XIV Cleopatra VII Philopator Ptolemy XV Caesarion
Seleucids	Seleucus I Nicator Antiochus I Soter Antiochus II Theos Seleucus II Callinicus Seleucus III Ceraunus Antiochus III the Great Seleucus IV Philopator Antiochus IV Epiphanes Antiochus V Eupator Demetrius I Soter Alexander I Balas Demetrius II Nicator Antiochus VI Dionysus Diodotus Tryphon Antiochus VII Sidetes Alexander II Zabinas Cleopatra Thea Seleucus V Philometor Antiochus VIII Grypus Antiochus IX Cyzicenus Seleucus VI Epiphanes Antiochus X Eusebes Antiochus XI Epiphanes Demetrius III Eucaerus Philip I Philadelphus Antiochus XII Dionysus Cleopatra Selene I Antiochus XIII Asiaticus Philip II Philoromaeus
Hellenistic rulers were preceded by Hellenistic satraps in most of their territories.

Hanukkah
\u05d7\u05b2\u05e0\u05bb\u05db\u05b8\u05bc\u05d4

Traditions

Symbols	Hanukkah menorah Dreidel (Sevivon) Gelt Public menorah
Foods	Biscochos Syrniki Fritas de prasa Latke Noodle latkes Sfenj Sufganiyah Bu\u00f1uelos
Music	" Ma'oz Tzur (Rock of Ages)" " Haneirot Halalu (These lights)" " Odecha Ki Tovot Gamalta (I will Thank You)" " Ichlu Mashmanim (Eat Fattened Animals)" " I Have a Little Dreidel" " Oh Chanukah" " The Chanukah Song" " Erran Baron Cohen Presents: Songs in the Key of Hanukkah" " Light One Candle" " Puppy for Hanukkah" The Hanukkah Sessions
Films	Eight Crazy Nights Full-Court Miracle The Hebrew Hammer
In television	" Mr. Hankey's Christmas Classics" " The One with the Holiday Armadillo" " A Rugrats Chanukah"
Activities	Festigal Latke\u2013Hamantash Debate
Other	Thanksgivukkah Hallel Hanukkah bush Hanukkah Harry Mensch on a Bench Chrismukkah

Maccabean
Revolt

Events	Seleucid Empire Temple in Jerusalem Maccabees Hasmonean Kingdom
Historical accounts	Books of Maccabees (1 and 2) The War of the Jews Miracle of the cruse of oil
People	Mattathias John Simon Judas Eleazar Jonathan Antiochus IV Epiphanes
Battles	Ma'aleh Levona Beth Horon Emmaus Beth Zur Campaigns of 163 BC Beth Zechariah Adasa Elasa

Authority control databases
International	ISNI VIAF 2 3 4 FAST WorldCat
National	Germany United States France BnF data Czech Republic Netherlands Norway Sweden Poland Vatican Israel
People	DeutscheBiographie DDB
Other	IdRef Yale LUX

Notes

Clarifications

Antiochus IV's name, Epiphanes, meaning "God Manifest," was a deliberate choice reflecting his divine aspirations. However, his actions, particularly his persecution of the Jews, led to the epithet Epimanes ("Madman"). The Book of Daniel is often interpreted as containing prophecies related to Antiochus IV, specifically identifying him as the "King of the North."

References

Source Material

This content is derived from comprehensive historical accounts and academic analyses of the Seleucid period.

External Links

Further Exploration

For deeper study, consult detailed historical resources and academic databases.

Authority Control

Identifiers

Cross-reference with major international and national library and archival databases for comprehensive cataloging and further research.

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References

Polybius 26.1a. See also Polybius 30.

Polybius 29.27.4, Livy 45.12.4ff.

2 Maccabees 5:5

Josephus, The Jewish War 1:1:1â2

2 Maccabees 5:11â14

1 Maccabees 1:41â50

2 Maccabees 9:5â9

C. Habicht, "The Seleucids and their rivals", in A. E. Astin, et al., Rome and the Mediterranean to 133 B.C., The Cambridge Ancient History, volume 8, p. 341

1 Maccabees 6:11

A full list of references for this article are available at the Antiochus IV Epiphanes Wikipedia page

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Antiochus IV Epiphanes

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Biography 🏛️

👑 Royal Ascent

💰 Extravagant Rule

Rise to Power 🚀

🏛️ From Hostage to King

Wars and Diplomacy ⚔️

🌍 Campaigns in Egypt

⚖️ Relations with Rome

Eastern Campaigns 🐎

🗺️ Parthian Challenge

Persecution of the Jews ✡️

🔥 Religious Suppression

📜 The Maccabean Revolt

Final Years and Death ⏳

⚰️ Divine Retribution?

Legacy ⭐

✡️ Jewish Tradition

✨ Divine Epithets

📚 Historiography

Jewish Tradition 📜

🕎 Persecutor of Faith

Divine Epithets ✨

👑 "God Manifest"

Historiography 📚

🧐 Interpreting the Past

Related Information 🔗

🏛️ Hellenistic Rulers

🕎 Maccabean Revolt

Notes 📝

ℹ️ Clarifications

References 📚

📄 Source Material

External Links 🌐

🔗 Further Exploration

Authority Control 🗂️

ID Identifiers

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

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Biography

Royal Ascent

Extravagant Rule

Rise to Power

From Hostage to King

Wars and Diplomacy

Campaigns in Egypt

Relations with Rome

Eastern Campaigns

Parthian Challenge

Persecution of the Jews

Religious Suppression

The Maccabean Revolt

Final Years and Death

Divine Retribution?

Legacy

Jewish Tradition

Divine Epithets

Historiography

Jewish Tradition

Persecutor of Faith

Divine Epithets

"God Manifest"

Historiography

Interpreting the Past

Related Information

Hellenistic Rulers

Maccabean Revolt

Notes

Clarifications

References

Source Material

External Links

Further Exploration

Authority Control

Identifiers

Teacher's Corner

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References

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Disclaimer

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