Simon chooses to affiliate with King Demetrius rather than the treacherous Trypho. After receiving a request for relief, Demetrius promises Simon to make peace and reduce the taxes that had been imposed. Israel was finally free from Gentile rule.
Simon, who was high priest and the commander of the army, and the leader of the people, besieged Gaza. When they were able to break into the city, the residents rushed out to ask Simon for peace and mercy. Simon agreed but first cleansed the houses in which idols were located, He then built a house there for himself. His next accomplishment was to take over the citadel.
What idols do we need to get out of our houses?
Great celebration that a great enemy had been crushed and removed from Israel. Simon decreed that they should celebrate this every year.
Simon made his son John commander of all the forces.
No leader can stay in power forever, but not every leader makes preparation for his inevitable succession.
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