1 Maccabees 8: Judas Maccabeus Forms an Alliance with Rome

The Rise of Rome

• 🗺️ The podcast discusses the growing power of Rome during the period of 160-170 BC, noting its expansion across the Mediterranean, including parts of Asia Minor, Greece, Spain, and North Africa.
• 🏛️ At this time, Rome was still a Republic, governed by a Senate, and notably feared kingship, opting for a dual consul system to prevent any single individual from accumulating too much power.

Roman Reputation and Strength

• ⚔️ Judas Maccabeus heard of Rome's formidable military strength and their favorable disposition towards allies.
• 💰 Accounts detailed Rome's victories in Gaul, Spain (securing silver and gold mines), and against various kings and kingdoms, often forcing them to pay tribute.
• 🐘 Rome's military prowess was demonstrated by their defeat of Antiochus the Great, who commanded a large army with elephants, cavalry, and chariots.

The Alliance with Judea

• 🤝 Recognizing the oppressive