THEOSISTheodoret of Cyrus
The accounts in the books of Maccabees, particularly the first and second, as well as the detailed writings of the historian Josephus, illustrate this clearly, and we will summarize this information according to his narrative. Members of the high priestly lineage, seeking to seize power for themselves, revolted against the reigning high priest. They approached Antiochus and persuaded him to replace Jewish laws with Hellenistic customs, even establishing a Hellenistic school within the city. This development caused deep sorrow among the faithful, who witnessed the blatant transgression of the commandments, while others disregarded God's law with impunity, mocking the ordinance of circumcision.
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As anger grew, Antiochus arrived in Jerusalem and executed many of the devout, treacherously invading the temple sanctuary. Upon entering, he robbed the entire temple, taking for himself the treasures, offerings, sacred vessels, and everything associated with the priestly ministry, such as the golden altar, lamps, and vessels. He further profaned the temple of God by erecting an altar to Zeus and inundated the city with idols, forcing everyone to offer sacrifices. Antiochus even sacrificed a pig on the sacred altar and renamed the temple as the temple of Olympian Zeus. All of this was foretold by the blessed Daniel, who, under the symbolism of the horn, saw Antiochus magnifying himself "even unto the power of heaven," rebelling fiercely against the God of the temple dedicated to Him. He saw the faithful fall from grace, as many forsook the law of God and found themselves trampled by this oppressor. The Prophet refers to them as stars, signifying their former honor and godliness. Furthermore, the Prophet recalls the divine promise to Abraham, stating, “I will make your seed like the stars of heaven” (Genesis 22:17). Yet, Antiochus would not be satisfied with merely trampling on those who were once called stars; he lifted himself against the supreme authority, raging against the God and King of that authority, which refers to the holy community. His actions would not cease, as the prophet foretells.