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2 Maccabees

Old Testament15 chapters

Historical Books

About This Book

A companion to 1 Maccabees focusing on God's protection of the Temple, the stories of martyrs, and early evidence for resurrection and prayer for the dead.

Quick Overview

Inspiring stories of martyrs who died rather than deny their faith. Important for Catholic teaching on resurrection and praying for the dead.

Author

Unknown (based on Jason of Cyrene's work)

Historical Period

c. 180-161 BC

Key Themes

MartyrdomResurrectionTemplePrayer for the DeadGod's Justice

Key Figures

Judas Maccabeus • Eleazar • Seven Brothers • Antiochus IV

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Translation: Douay-Rheims - Catholic Bible