Deceitfully speaking words of peace, the Greek occupiers instead plundered then destroyed the city, tearing down its houses and its walls. They took captive women and children and seized the livestock. Then they built their own citadel in Jerusalem and wall with towers around it. More foreigners came to Jerusalem,. As more Jews fled the city, the temple was desolate, largely abandoned, now dishonored instead of exalted.
The king seeking a unified nation imposed laws requiring adherence to the religion that was dominant in the empire. Religious customs that didn't suit the majority faith were forbidden. The religious writings of the minority faith were destroyed. People were punished severely for following their faith. Yet, many stood firm, and many died because of their commitment.
How much protection is due to practice of religion by minority groups?
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