That’s the situation facing Judas Maccabeus and his brother Jonathan in the Book of Maccabees.
We pick up their story in 1 Maccabees 5 as they venture east, across the Jordan River, plunging deep into the wilderness for three long days. What are they searching for? News. Information. Anything that can help them understand the threats facing their people.
Then, they encounter the Nabathites. These desert dwellers, known for their trade routes and survival skills, approach Judas and Jonathan with an air of peace. But their message is anything but peaceful. They bring grim tidings from the land of Galaad, a region east of the Jordan.
The Nabathites reveal that Jewish communities are under siege. Many are trapped, “shut up” as the text says, in fortified cities. Bosora, Bosor, Alema, Casphor, Maked, and Carnaim—all described as “strong and great.” Think of these cities as beacons of hope, now flickering under the shadow of attack. And those aren’t the only ones at risk. The Nabathites report that the remaining Jewish people are cornered in other cities throughout Galaad.
But here’s the truly terrifying part: the enemy has set a deadline. "Against tomorrow," the Nabathites warn, the enemy plans to unleash its full force against these fortresses. Their goal? To conquer them and annihilate the Jewish inhabitants “in one day.” Can you imagine the sheer panic, the desperation of those trapped within those walls, knowing that dawn could bring their destruction?
This passage is short, but it crackles with tension. It's a moment of stark realization for Judas Maccabeus and his brother. They learn just how dire the situation is in Galaad. What will they do? How can they possibly rescue so many people from such overwhelming odds? The clock is ticking. The next chapter will tell us.