Hegemonides is a figure mentioned in the context of the Maccabean revolt, a significant period in Jewish history that is detailed in the deuterocanonical books of the Maccabees. While Hegemonides is not directly mentioned in the canonical books of the Protestant Bible, his role is noted in the historical accounts found in the books of 1 and 2 Maccabees, which are included in the Septuagint and the Catholic and Orthodox biblical canons.

Historical Context

The Maccabean revolt (circa 167–160 BC) was a Jewish rebellion against the Seleucid Empire and its Hellenistic influence, particularly under the rule of Antiochus IV Epiphanes. This period is marked by the struggle for religious freedom and the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, events commemorated by the Jewish festival of Hanukkah.

Role of Hegemonides

Hegemonides is identified as a military officer serving under the Seleucid king Antiochus V Eupator. His involvement is primarily noted during the campaigns against the Jewish forces led by Judas Maccabeus. Hegemonides was tasked with maintaining control over certain regions and suppressing the Jewish uprising.

In 2 Maccabees 13:24-26, Hegemonides is mentioned in the context of the Seleucid military efforts to reassert control over Judea. The text describes how the Seleucid forces, under the command of Lysias and with the support of Hegemonides, attempted to quell the rebellion. The Berean Standard Bible does not include the books of Maccabees, but these accounts are crucial for understanding the historical and religious significance of the Maccabean revolt.

Military and Political Influence

Hegemonides' role as a military officer highlights the broader strategy of the Seleucid Empire to enforce Hellenistic culture and suppress Jewish religious practices. The Seleucid rulers sought to integrate their territories through cultural and religious assimilation, often leading to conflict with local populations who resisted such changes.

The presence of figures like Hegemonides underscores the challenges faced by the Jewish people during this tumultuous period. The Maccabean revolt was not only a fight for religious freedom but also a struggle against foreign domination and cultural erosion.

Significance in Jewish History

While Hegemonides himself may not be a central figure in the biblical narrative, his involvement in the events surrounding the Maccabean revolt is part of a larger account of perseverance and faith. The successful resistance led by the Maccabees and the subsequent rededication of the Temple are pivotal moments in Jewish history, symbolizing the triumph of faith and identity over oppression.

The accounts of Hegemonides and the Seleucid campaigns serve as a backdrop to the heroism and dedication of the Maccabean leaders, whose legacy is celebrated in Jewish tradition and remembered for their steadfast commitment to their faith and heritage.HEGEMONIDES

heg-e-mon'-i-dez, hej-e-mo-ni'-dez (Hegemonides): The Syrian officer placed in command of the district extending from Ptolemais to the Gerrenians (2 Maccabees 13:24). It is not easy to see how in the King James Version and even in Swete's revised text the word can be taken as a mere appellative along with strategon, the two being rendered "principal officer": one of the two could certainly be omitted (Swete, 3rd ed., 1905, capitalizes Hegemonides). In the Revised Version (British and American) the word is taken as the name of some person otherwise unknown.

Hegemonides
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia HEGEMONIDES. heg-e-mon'-i-dez, hej-e-mo-
ni'-dez (Hegemonides): The Syrian officer placed in command ...
/h/hegemonides.htm - 6k

Gerrenians
... name indicates the southern limit of the territory assigned by Antiochus Eupator
to the government of Judas Maccabeus when he "left Hegemonides governor from ...
/g/gerrenians.htm - 7k

Hege (1 Occurrence)

/h/hege.htm - 7k

Heglam (1 Occurrence)

/h/heglam.htm - 6k

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