The Influence of Greek Historiography in 1 Maccabees’ Battle Exhortations

ABSTRACT1 Maccabees, though surviving solely in Greek through the Septuagint, is recognized by scholars as a Judean composition steeped in biblical historiography, with minimal Hellenistic influence. However, a nuanced analysis reveals Greek narrative parallels within its text. This study investigates the integration of Greek historiographical elements, focusing on the motif of battle exhortation. It demonstrates how the author amalgamates Greek and Jewish cultural motifs to glorify the early Hasmoneans, particularly Judas and Simon, emphasizing their military prowess and religious fervour. Through examination of battle exhortations by the protagonists, this research enriches our understanding of 1 Maccabees' compositional techniques, highlighting the significance of Greco-Roman influences in biblical scholarship on the text.Key words: 1 Maccabeesbattle exhortationHellenistic JudaismGreek historiographySecond Temple literature