The letters began to arrive.
“We have heard of your valor and faithfulness… Come, be our friend and ally.” (1 Macc. 10:20)
Jonathan read the offers carefully. Each promised titles, riches, and peace. Yet Jonathan’s concern was not his throne—it was God’s temple and His people’s freedom. With the wisdom of a statesman and the heart of a shepherd, he discerned which alliances would preserve covenant identity, not corrupt it.
When he met with Alexander Balas, Jonathan’s humility and faithfulness won the king’s favor. He was appointed High Priest of Israel, robed in royal garments, and granted authority over Jerusalem. The honor was great—but greater still was the task: to rebuild a nation’s dignity in the midst of political chaos.
Under Jonathan’s leadership, the people began to organize again. Walls were rebuilt. Cities were fortified. Justice was restored. He sent envoys to Rome and Sparta, securing recognition of Jewish sovereignty and opening new channels of peace. The movement that began as a desperate revolt became a respected state.
