1 Maccabees 15:3-5

Common English Bible

³ Some troublemakers have gained control of our ancestors’ kingdom. I intend to take command of the kingdom so that I may restore it to the way it used to be. I have recruited a large number of foreign troops and have equipped warships. ⁴ I am going to come to the country so that I can move against the people who have destroyed our country and devastated many cities in my kingdom. ⁵ Therefore, I confirm all of the favorable tax exemptions that previous kings have given you. Also, I consent to any agreements you had with them to release you from other payments.