2 Maccabees 14:15
King James VersionSource notes
“Now when the Jews heard of Nicanor’s coming, and that the heathen were up against them, they cast earth upon their heads, and made supplication to him that had established his people for ever, and who always helpeth his portion with manifestation of his presence.”
Context
12And forthwith calling Nicanor, who had been master of the elephants, and making him governor over Judea, he sent him forth,
13Commanding him to slay Judas, and to scatter them that were with him, and to make Alcimus high priest of the great temple.
14Then the heathen, that had fled out of Judea from Judas, came to Nicanor by flocks, thinking the harm and calamities ot the Jews to be their welfare.
15Now when the Jews heard of Nicanor’s coming, and that the heathen were up against them, they cast earth upon their heads, and made supplication to him that had established his people for ever, and who always helpeth his portion with manifestation of his presence.
16So at the commandment of the captain they removed straightways from thence, and came near unto them at the town of Dessau.
17Now Simon, Judas’ brother, had joined battle with Nicanor, but was somewhat discomfited through the sudden silence of his enemies.
18Nevertheless Nicanor, hearing of the manliness of them that were with Judas, and the courageousness that they had to fight for their country, durst not try the matter by the sword.