When Jonathan heard that the generals of Demetrius had returned to wage war against him with an even larger army than previously, he set forth from Jerusalem and met them in the region of Hamath, thereby giving them no opportunity to invade his own territory. He sent spies into their camp who returned and informed him that the enemy was preparing to attack the Jews that night. Therefore, at sunset Jonathan commanded his troops to remain awake and fully armed throughout the night, prepared for battle, and he stationed outposts all around the camp. When the enemy learned that Jonathan and his men were ready for battle, they were terrified, and their courage failed them. After lighting fires in the camp, they then withdrew. However, Jonathan and his men were not aware of their withdrawal until morning, for they saw the fires burning. Although Jonathan pursued them, he was unable to overtake them, for they had crossed the River Eleutherus. And so, Jonathan turned aside to attack the Arabs who are called Zabadeans, and he thoroughly routed them and engaged in plunder. Then he moved on to Damascus, marching through that entire region. Simon also set out and advanced as far as Ashkelon and its neighboring strongholds. He then turned toward Joppa and occupied it, for he had heard that its inhabitants intended to hand over this stronghold to the supporters of Demetrius, and he stationed a garrison there to guard it.
1ST MACCABEES: CHAPTER 12, VERSES 24 - 34
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