21 November 2023

When he (Eleazar) was about to die under the blows, he groaned aloud and said: ‘It is clear to the Lord in his holy knowledge that, though I might have been saved from death, I am enduring terrible sufferings in my body under this beating, but in my soul I am glad to suffer these things because I fear him.’

So in this way he died, leaving in his death an example of nobility and a memorial of courage, not only to the young but to the great body of his nation.

From 2 Maccabees 6:18-31, NRSV

In yesterday’s reading from Maccabees, we heard in general about the plight of the people of Israel under the rules of King Antiochus Epiphanes. Today we hear about what happened to one individual called Eleazar. This elderly and prominent teacher of the Law was being forced to swallow pig meat. Those in charge of proceedings, who had known and possibly respected Eleazar for some time, offered him a way out. They would bring him meat prepared in accordance with his religion and he could pretend that he was eating the meat prescribed by the king. Eleazar strongly objected to this decision both because it would mean that he had conformed to the will of the king and because of the message this might give to younger people who witnessed it. He chose to die with honour rather than to live with disgrace. He made this sacrifice not with hope of resurrection but because of the “awe” which God inspired in him.

• • What impact do you think Eleazar’s sacrifice may have made on his fellow Jews – and on those who carried out his killing?
  • How does the martyrdom of others influence your faith? 

Reflect on the sacrifice made by the many martyrs who have died in defence of their faith. You may wish to find out more about a particular martyr.