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Day of Atonement: A Novel of the Maccabean Revolt
In the blank pages between Malachi and Matthew, the course of an entire nation was changed . . .
His brother, the high priest Honiah, enjoyed the authority of the high priesthood, and all important decisions needed his approval. But it was Jason who was shaping the future of Jerusalem and with it, all Judea. He breathed in again, imagining that he could feel the wave of destiny impelling him forward toward his vision as he exhaled . . .
The Greeks have taken over the world, but Jerusalem is still the same backwater city Jason has always known. He wants to help his hometown rise to a new age of prosperity and influence. If that means stretching the terms of the city’s divine covenant, so be it. But how far is he willing to go to achieve Greek greatness for this Jewish city? It will take the willingness of a handful of Jews to die rather than violate the covenant in order to turn the tide back to God.
Written by an internationally recognized expert in the period between the Testaments, Day of Atonement invites readers into Judea during the tumultuous years leading up to the Maccabean Revolt. It was this pivotal decade that reminded Jews of the centrality of the covenant to their national security and taught them that the covenant was worth dying for. The story is so foundational, it is still told every year at Hanukkah. The lessons learned during this turbulent time also shed light on just what was at stake in the ministry of Jesus, whose radical message seemed to threaten the covenant once again.
Day of Atonement joins the perennially successful novels Pontius Pilate and The Flames of Rome by renowned historian Paul Maier on Kregel’s premier list of captivating and historically accurate biblical novels.
His brother, the high priest Honiah, enjoyed the authority of the high priesthood, and all important decisions needed his approval. But it was Jason who was shaping the future of Jerusalem and with it, all Judea. He breathed in again, imagining that he could feel the wave of destiny impelling him forward toward his vision as he exhaled . . .
The Greeks have taken over the world, but Jerusalem is still the same backwater city Jason has always known. He wants to help his hometown rise to a new age of prosperity and influence. If that means stretching the terms of the city’s divine covenant, so be it. But how far is he willing to go to achieve Greek greatness for this Jewish city? It will take the willingness of a handful of Jews to die rather than violate the covenant in order to turn the tide back to God.
Written by an internationally recognized expert in the period between the Testaments, Day of Atonement invites readers into Judea during the tumultuous years leading up to the Maccabean Revolt. It was this pivotal decade that reminded Jews of the centrality of the covenant to their national security and taught them that the covenant was worth dying for. The story is so foundational, it is still told every year at Hanukkah. The lessons learned during this turbulent time also shed light on just what was at stake in the ministry of Jesus, whose radical message seemed to threaten the covenant once again.
Day of Atonement joins the perennially successful novels Pontius Pilate and The Flames of Rome by renowned historian Paul Maier on Kregel’s premier list of captivating and historically accurate biblical novels.
320 pages, Paperback
First published June 27, 2015
28 people are currently reading
500 people want to read
About the author
David A. deSilva
83 books68 followersDavid A. deSilva (PhD, Emory University) is Trustees’ Distinguished Professor of New Testament and Greek at Ashland Theological Seminary in Ashland, Ohio. His numerous books include Introducing the Apocrypha and An Introduction to the New Testament: Contexts, Methods, and Ministry Formation.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
October 16, 2015
I have not seen many novels set in this time period, let alone this subject; I was thrilled to read this one. The subtitle led me to believe it would be a blow-by-blow description of the Maccabean Revolt itself and aftermath, but it turned out to be the author's speculation on what **could have happened** to bring on this revolt. He tells the stories of two sets of brothers, one priestly, and the other simple metalworkers. One brother of each is more conservative, one more flexible. I was enthralled. The author is probably a non-Jew and probably didn't get every detail right, but the importance of the novel was the theme: Jews [or any minority religious group] living in a foreign culture, in this case the Seleucid Empire: how much should they adapt or hold to their laws and traditions?
The conflict between those who want to keep Torah as law of Jerusalem and Hellenizers becomes more and more pointed and serious, with the change of High Priest: from Honiah, the fiercely conservative; Jason, who wants some Hellenization but won't give up the main points of the Torah; finally to Menelaus [appointed through simony] and who permits desecration of the Temple by allowing practice of the foreign Greek and Syrian religions, including animal [including the pig] sacrifices there. In 21st century terms I thought of Political Correctness run amok.
When asked if people can still be "right with God" if they don't offer a Temple sacrifice, one character quotes the sage Ben Sira:
"The person who keeps the Torah makes his offering; the person who heeds the commandments sacrifices an offering of well-being. Return a kindness and you make a grain offering; give alms and you make a thanksgiving offering. Forsake wickedness and you make an atonement offering."
Some Jews accept the situation, others avoid the Temple and worship in secret and still others: Mattathias and his sons foment a rebellion against the draconian laws about their religion. One son, Judah ben Mattathias is told that he will be the hammer in God's hand. One scene involving an old priest and a family was hagiographical. I liked the quotations from the psalms and the Apocrypha [Deuterocanonical Books]. This thoughtful novel brought the era to life. From the List of Characters I was surprised so many actually lived!
Highly recommended.
I thank LibraryThing for sending me this book.
The conflict between those who want to keep Torah as law of Jerusalem and Hellenizers becomes more and more pointed and serious, with the change of High Priest: from Honiah, the fiercely conservative; Jason, who wants some Hellenization but won't give up the main points of the Torah; finally to Menelaus [appointed through simony] and who permits desecration of the Temple by allowing practice of the foreign Greek and Syrian religions, including animal [including the pig] sacrifices there. In 21st century terms I thought of Political Correctness run amok.
When asked if people can still be "right with God" if they don't offer a Temple sacrifice, one character quotes the sage Ben Sira:
"The person who keeps the Torah makes his offering; the person who heeds the commandments sacrifices an offering of well-being. Return a kindness and you make a grain offering; give alms and you make a thanksgiving offering. Forsake wickedness and you make an atonement offering."
Some Jews accept the situation, others avoid the Temple and worship in secret and still others: Mattathias and his sons foment a rebellion against the draconian laws about their religion. One son, Judah ben Mattathias is told that he will be the hammer in God's hand. One scene involving an old priest and a family was hagiographical. I liked the quotations from the psalms and the Apocrypha [Deuterocanonical Books]. This thoughtful novel brought the era to life. From the List of Characters I was surprised so many actually lived!
Highly recommended.
I thank LibraryThing for sending me this book.
July 15, 2024
I wanted to read this novel to augment my understanding of First and Second Maccabees, but it is actually based on Four Maccabees, a book I did not even know existed. Granted they are all closely related and concern the same general time frame, area, battles and issues, but there are still differences concerning specifics. However, for my purposes, which was to get a feel for the timeframe, this novel was perfect.
The narrative circled among the Greek invading king, Antiochus IV and his staff, the rebel family of Mattathias and his sons, eventually known by the name of the second son, Judas Maccabeus, who gave the name to the entire 'revolt' and various Jews who lived in the city of Jerusalem, the High Priest, Honiah, his brother, Jason who attempted to compromise with the Greek invaders, his 'friends' and a pious group of others, temple priests, families and friends, some who later became martyrs to the king's escalating ambitions.
An excellent story to help understand the religious political intricacies of this era.
Warning: the descriptions of the martyrdoms are quite graphic.
The narrative circled among the Greek invading king, Antiochus IV and his staff, the rebel family of Mattathias and his sons, eventually known by the name of the second son, Judas Maccabeus, who gave the name to the entire 'revolt' and various Jews who lived in the city of Jerusalem, the High Priest, Honiah, his brother, Jason who attempted to compromise with the Greek invaders, his 'friends' and a pious group of others, temple priests, families and friends, some who later became martyrs to the king's escalating ambitions.
An excellent story to help understand the religious political intricacies of this era.
Warning: the descriptions of the martyrdoms are quite graphic.
January 9, 2023
An amazing historical fiction novel by a Second Temple Judaism and New Testament. I found it both entertaining and informing. He has a very Tcherikoverian take on the revolt itself. He integrates aspects of their culture and helps the reader to understand the often-conflicting values of Jews in the 2nd century BC.
October 23, 2020
DeSilva, David. Day of Atonement. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel, 2015.
“I will stir up your sons, O Zion, against your sons, O Greece.”
~God
David DeSilva gives us a brilliant and gripping fictional retelling of the Maccabees saga. Not only is this good history, it is outstanding storytelling. It’s Braveheart for Hebrews. It begins with the godly Honiah as High Priest. Jason, Honiah’s brother, is the functional mayor of Jerusalem (though that title isn’t accurate). Jason is caught between loyalty to the covenant and the increasing pressure to Hellenize.
DeSilva’s real strength is showing just how powerful Hellenism was. It wasn’t simply “worshipping Zeus.” It required learning the Greek stories, language, and customs (such as wrestling nude in a gymnasium). Those in themselves aren’t too powerful forces. The real problem is that the Hebraic resistance to Hellenism meant loss of commercial opportunities for Jerusalem. That was a problem, not because it made Jews poor, but that it reflected badly on the Hellenistic ruler, Antiochus IV Epiphanes.
Sounds kind of familiar, doesn’t it? If you want the big company to come to your town and bring jobs, then you might need to accommodate them. That might involve updating your views on traditional marriage and working on Sunday. Chill out. No one is asking you to worship Zeus. Don’t be silly.
The main characters, though, aren’t Honiah and Jason, nor even Judas Maccabeus. They are the young Jewish metalworkers, Meir and Binyamin. The former feels the Hellenistic pressure acutely.
From there DeSilva outlines the causes of the Maccabean rebellion in story format. I say “causes” and not so much the war itself. The initial conflict between Judas Maccabeus and Antiochus is over by chapter 2 of 1 Maccabees. What DeSilva does is brilliantly recreate the situations that made it possible. It’s also good history for understanding how Rome got involved in Judean affairs later on for New Testament times.
The reader, moreover, feels the struggle of Hellenism. As Christians who inherited our theology from Greek theologians, we simply cannot reject all things Greek. Substance metaphysics, for one, has remained a powerful conceptual tool and to reject it probably spells disaster for Trinitarian theology. On the other hand, we should also be aware of what Greek culture really was back then. I think our desire for “classical education for our Christian kids” has sanitized Greek culture. While some post-Pythagoreans might have believed in the one god, it was always a god who could be manifested in Baal, Zeus, or Yahweh. As Robert Jenson quipped, “Greek philosophy is a Mediterranean mystery religion.”
There are other less than savory aspects of Greek culture. A Greek symposium might sound like a nice philosophy conference, but you were also expected to receive the entertainments of hetaira. I suppose, though, we should be grateful that the hetaira were female.
I recommend this book for everyone in high school and up.
“I will stir up your sons, O Zion, against your sons, O Greece.”
~God
David DeSilva gives us a brilliant and gripping fictional retelling of the Maccabees saga. Not only is this good history, it is outstanding storytelling. It’s Braveheart for Hebrews. It begins with the godly Honiah as High Priest. Jason, Honiah’s brother, is the functional mayor of Jerusalem (though that title isn’t accurate). Jason is caught between loyalty to the covenant and the increasing pressure to Hellenize.
DeSilva’s real strength is showing just how powerful Hellenism was. It wasn’t simply “worshipping Zeus.” It required learning the Greek stories, language, and customs (such as wrestling nude in a gymnasium). Those in themselves aren’t too powerful forces. The real problem is that the Hebraic resistance to Hellenism meant loss of commercial opportunities for Jerusalem. That was a problem, not because it made Jews poor, but that it reflected badly on the Hellenistic ruler, Antiochus IV Epiphanes.
Sounds kind of familiar, doesn’t it? If you want the big company to come to your town and bring jobs, then you might need to accommodate them. That might involve updating your views on traditional marriage and working on Sunday. Chill out. No one is asking you to worship Zeus. Don’t be silly.
The main characters, though, aren’t Honiah and Jason, nor even Judas Maccabeus. They are the young Jewish metalworkers, Meir and Binyamin. The former feels the Hellenistic pressure acutely.
From there DeSilva outlines the causes of the Maccabean rebellion in story format. I say “causes” and not so much the war itself. The initial conflict between Judas Maccabeus and Antiochus is over by chapter 2 of 1 Maccabees. What DeSilva does is brilliantly recreate the situations that made it possible. It’s also good history for understanding how Rome got involved in Judean affairs later on for New Testament times.
The reader, moreover, feels the struggle of Hellenism. As Christians who inherited our theology from Greek theologians, we simply cannot reject all things Greek. Substance metaphysics, for one, has remained a powerful conceptual tool and to reject it probably spells disaster for Trinitarian theology. On the other hand, we should also be aware of what Greek culture really was back then. I think our desire for “classical education for our Christian kids” has sanitized Greek culture. While some post-Pythagoreans might have believed in the one god, it was always a god who could be manifested in Baal, Zeus, or Yahweh. As Robert Jenson quipped, “Greek philosophy is a Mediterranean mystery religion.”
There are other less than savory aspects of Greek culture. A Greek symposium might sound like a nice philosophy conference, but you were also expected to receive the entertainments of hetaira. I suppose, though, we should be grateful that the hetaira were female.
I recommend this book for everyone in high school and up.
July 31, 2015
I've always had a keen anthropological interest in all thing religious because of the profound impact (both positive and negative) religion has on our society in the past and present. Also, most religions have great stories and I'm a sucker for the well-told tale. The Maccabean Revolt has all the elements of a rousing tale: people oppressed by a cruel dictator, martyrs to the cause, the rise of an underground rebellion with both spiritual leaders and national heroes to lead a guerrilla movement, and a final battle where the ragtag rebels defeat the evil overlord and his well-equipped army. There's a reason this story is repeated in various places and times throughout history and saturates our pop culture (think the American Revolution and Star Wars). It appeals to our sense of justice and allows us to think we could be heroes and part of something bigger, grander; that we can take control over our fate and prevail. As much as I enjoy such tales (I won't tell you how many times I've watched Star Wars!), I'm sure I wouldn't want to live them.
I knew the basics of the Maccabean Revolt before I read this book which helps to understand its context. The themes explored by deSilva resonate in today's culture wars. The Jews of Jerusalem wrestle with "What it is to be a Jew" in their rapidly Hellenizing city. The religious element cling to a strict interpretation of their laws. The commercial elements and some power elite see much to be admired in greater ties with other cultures and loosening the laws that forbid such interactions, keeping Jews isolated and without allies or power. Once that loosening is accomplished a zealot "reformer" realizes his dream of absolute power and imposes foreign religions and rites on his fellow Jews, taking personal revenge for his exclusion from power in the past. It's the tragedy of the extremes where neither side will bend or accommodate. The middle way (proposed and practiced by a number of the characters)--leaving religion of all kinds protected and practiced in the private sphere (home and temple) while making the public and commerce inclusive--is rejected by both sides leaving armed conflict as the only solution. (For folks who want a deeper insight into how this is played out in today's world, I highly recommend The Battle for God: A History of Fundamentalism by Karen Armstrong who looks at these movements through time in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.)
In spite of deSilva's title, this book only covers the lead up to and the initial opening skirmishes in the Revolt. He tells his story mainly through the eyes of two families. Two powerful brothers who dominate the priesthood: Honiah an unbending conservative and Jason (born Yeshua) a progressive "modernizer," and their many adherents, play out the political background giving us insight in the workings of power through government, religion, and commerce. The other is a humble family of silversmiths--three brothers, their wives, and mother--dealing with the changes in their culture. They give us insight into the effects of the decisions of the leaders on the lives of everyday people.
I found the plot complicated, the story fascinating, and the history meticulous--tons of detail on clothes, food, architecture, rituals, etc. However I found the book slow moving until the last 50-75 pages. If it wasn't for my OCD, I'm not sure I would have finished it, but the ending paid off. My major complaint about the book as literature/entertainment is that I found the characters generally flat. They kept me at a distance. I read about how they felt and but didn't feel their anguish, joy, disappointment, etc., thus my three star rating. I liked it, but more for the history than the story. Which is a shame, because the Maccabean Revolt is a great story.
NOTE: I received a free copy from the publisher in return for an honest review.
I knew the basics of the Maccabean Revolt before I read this book which helps to understand its context. The themes explored by deSilva resonate in today's culture wars. The Jews of Jerusalem wrestle with "What it is to be a Jew" in their rapidly Hellenizing city. The religious element cling to a strict interpretation of their laws. The commercial elements and some power elite see much to be admired in greater ties with other cultures and loosening the laws that forbid such interactions, keeping Jews isolated and without allies or power. Once that loosening is accomplished a zealot "reformer" realizes his dream of absolute power and imposes foreign religions and rites on his fellow Jews, taking personal revenge for his exclusion from power in the past. It's the tragedy of the extremes where neither side will bend or accommodate. The middle way (proposed and practiced by a number of the characters)--leaving religion of all kinds protected and practiced in the private sphere (home and temple) while making the public and commerce inclusive--is rejected by both sides leaving armed conflict as the only solution. (For folks who want a deeper insight into how this is played out in today's world, I highly recommend The Battle for God: A History of Fundamentalism by Karen Armstrong who looks at these movements through time in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.)
In spite of deSilva's title, this book only covers the lead up to and the initial opening skirmishes in the Revolt. He tells his story mainly through the eyes of two families. Two powerful brothers who dominate the priesthood: Honiah an unbending conservative and Jason (born Yeshua) a progressive "modernizer," and their many adherents, play out the political background giving us insight in the workings of power through government, religion, and commerce. The other is a humble family of silversmiths--three brothers, their wives, and mother--dealing with the changes in their culture. They give us insight into the effects of the decisions of the leaders on the lives of everyday people.
I found the plot complicated, the story fascinating, and the history meticulous--tons of detail on clothes, food, architecture, rituals, etc. However I found the book slow moving until the last 50-75 pages. If it wasn't for my OCD, I'm not sure I would have finished it, but the ending paid off. My major complaint about the book as literature/entertainment is that I found the characters generally flat. They kept me at a distance. I read about how they felt and but didn't feel their anguish, joy, disappointment, etc., thus my three star rating. I liked it, but more for the history than the story. Which is a shame, because the Maccabean Revolt is a great story.
NOTE: I received a free copy from the publisher in return for an honest review.
December 10, 2015
I really enjoyed a very well written book. At first I had a hard time getting into it but when I did, it proved well worth it.
Its the story of Hanukkah which Jews around the world are celebrating this time of year. I think all people should read this to see what the celebration is all about.
Its the story of Hanukkah which Jews around the world are celebrating this time of year. I think all people should read this to see what the celebration is all about.
January 20, 2021
Too Complicated
I really enjoyed this author’s introduction to the New Testament. It is one of my go to text books. This historical novel is not as enjoyable. It is quite complicated and hard to follow because of the wide range of characters. The story is really slow for the first two parts but does speed up in the final part. I had to force myself to keep going for the most part. I felt like it needed a lot more editing. The premise is a good one, that is to retell the story of the Maccabean revolt but...it needed work on the pace, characterisation story telling. This felt like the author was struggling to take off his academic’s hat and put on a story teller’s hat instead. There were too many characters to get a handle on any one. It would have been better to tell the story from one or maybe two characters’ perspective. Instead, there were just so many, you never felt you got to know who they were in any depth. I so wanted to love it. Unfortunately I didn’t. But, if he writes another one, I would give it a go. On the other hand, I recommend his academic works.
I really enjoyed this author’s introduction to the New Testament. It is one of my go to text books. This historical novel is not as enjoyable. It is quite complicated and hard to follow because of the wide range of characters. The story is really slow for the first two parts but does speed up in the final part. I had to force myself to keep going for the most part. I felt like it needed a lot more editing. The premise is a good one, that is to retell the story of the Maccabean revolt but...it needed work on the pace, characterisation story telling. This felt like the author was struggling to take off his academic’s hat and put on a story teller’s hat instead. There were too many characters to get a handle on any one. It would have been better to tell the story from one or maybe two characters’ perspective. Instead, there were just so many, you never felt you got to know who they were in any depth. I so wanted to love it. Unfortunately I didn’t. But, if he writes another one, I would give it a go. On the other hand, I recommend his academic works.
October 7, 2025
A historical novel that captures the spirit of the Jewish people of the time and, the immense pressures they were under to accommodate outside religions and compromise their faith. It also opens a window into the daily life of the Jewish people and how their life revolved around the Temple and their faith. Inspiration for the book was drawn from the Apocrypha and more specifically the book of Maccabees. In a more modern context, the book also illustrates how people are still pressured with subtle changes, political expediency and violent means to abandon their faith and conform to the current culture. It is about a family that is caught between their Jewish Faith and people who want to allow foreign deities to be worshiped in Jerusalem. How greed for money, a higher standard of living splits them, their sacrifices and redemption. Highly recommended.
December 17, 2021
This historical novel, set in 175-167 BC, brings to life the Judean culture war that led to civil war and the Maccabean revolt against the Seleucid Empire. This is a great book to read in conjunction with First, Second, and Fourth Maccabees to get the full story behind the festival of Hanukkah. The author is a leading Christian scholar who has written widely on the New Testament and the Jewish literature of the Second Temple period.
August 22, 2023
I didn't really like it. Didn't really like any of the characters. I found it gory. It was written by an academic who is enthralled by the time between the Old Testament and the New Testament and the Apochrypha. I guess it was plot driven, with jumps in time. I didn't feel like the characters were really developed. They were either harsh and legalistic or selling out to the Greeks and their philosophy.
October 29, 2025
Not my typical genre or style of book….. but boy did this exceed my expectations. The Maccabean Revolt was not something I was very familiar with before reading the book, but now I have a strong desire to learn so much more about it. The admiration I hold for some of these characters is so great considering that there were actually people that went through the same thing. This book is a heartbreaking but powerful story of God’s faithful people.
July 7, 2025
Okay overall-writing was pretty good. Character development was so so. Historical context was fascinating-examined the relationship between the Jews and Greeks about 150 years before Jesus birth. Syncretism and difficulties upholding the commandments challenged the faithful, ultimately leading to the Maccabean revolt
May 6, 2018
Very well-written, engaging account of the Maccabean revolt. It was a heavy read, but helpful.
March 19, 2017
Interesting and inspiring. I don't spend much time with books that never made the Protestant canon, but I do know the story of the Maccabean revolt. This was a great reminder of the slippery slope that begins with what seem to be harmless compromises, and the fortunate courage of the remnant that never backed down.
February 19, 2017
Most Christians do not realize there is a large gap between Malachi and Matthew. We’ve noticed a blank page or two, but eagerly turn from the Old Testament to the New without much thought. Those blank pages hide four hundred years of turbulent history in the life of the people of Israel. Some Bibles even include additional books to fill in the missing details. I’m not advocating a return to the Apocrypha, but every Christian can benefit from an appreciation of the harrowing tale that stands behind the Maccabean revolt. That history stands behind Jesus’ celebration (and endorsement?) of the Feast of Dedication.
The Maccabean history is helpful in today’s world where increasingly Christianity is marginalized and a pressure is building for us to synthesize our faith with the lifestyle of those around us. Just water down our faith, bend a little here and a little there, and we’re sure to increase our cultural status. A similar challenge faced the Jews who would be true to God in the face of the siren call of Hellenization and Greek influence.
This story of heroic resolve to stand for the faith finds new expression in a debut novel from a scholar who specializes in this time period: "Day of Atonement: A Novel of the Maccabean Revolt" (Kregel, 2015). The characters in this fictitious tale grapple with their changing world in different ways. Some give in and accommodate the Greek way of life, ever giving more and ultimately finding that compromise was too costly. Others try to keep roots in both ways of life and ultimately must choose for whom they will stand. Some resist quietly and others spur on a rebellion. Then there are those who give their all: becoming objects of gruesome persecution at the hands of Antiochus IV himself. There are no easy paths to follow, but those were no simple times.
The tale itself is told masterfully and the reader is slowly drawn into the world of the second century B.C. Historical figures find their way into the tale, Antiochus IV makes several appearances, but only after sufficient time to grasp the setting of Jerusalem at that day. The account is believable and the personal touches are compelling. Detailed account of sacrifices in the Temple and personal prayers are sure to inspire devotion in the reader. Historical details are abundant and the author weaves a picture of life in Jerusalem in full color.
The backstory to the rebellion takes most of the attention, along with the personal challenges to accommodate or persevere. But enough of the action is told to satisfy the curiosity of the reader who may know what is coming. Still it made me want to pick up a copy of I and II Maccabees (or is it III and IV Maccabees?).
One feature of the story deserves special attention. The author appears to describe the book of Daniel (in the form we know it today) being written during the Maccabean period. He still has the prophecy tell the future, but not from Daniel’s hand. “The spirit of Daniel” rests on the book’s author. Since other characters betray knowledge of Daniel’s example of faith in the face of apostasy, not every reader will pick up on this point. But it seemed clear to me the author must hold to a late author for at least the visions of Daniel. This point is not vital to the storyline and the conservative who holds to a sixth century B.C. date for the book of Daniel can easily disregard it.
For a first novel the book does not disappoint. At times there were some artificial elements. The Maccabean rebels at one point sound almost like the Covenanters of Scotland. But on the whole the book does a superb job of telling the Maccabean story in a personal and poignant way. I highly recommend it.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher. I was under no obligation to offer a positive review.
The Maccabean history is helpful in today’s world where increasingly Christianity is marginalized and a pressure is building for us to synthesize our faith with the lifestyle of those around us. Just water down our faith, bend a little here and a little there, and we’re sure to increase our cultural status. A similar challenge faced the Jews who would be true to God in the face of the siren call of Hellenization and Greek influence.
This story of heroic resolve to stand for the faith finds new expression in a debut novel from a scholar who specializes in this time period: "Day of Atonement: A Novel of the Maccabean Revolt" (Kregel, 2015). The characters in this fictitious tale grapple with their changing world in different ways. Some give in and accommodate the Greek way of life, ever giving more and ultimately finding that compromise was too costly. Others try to keep roots in both ways of life and ultimately must choose for whom they will stand. Some resist quietly and others spur on a rebellion. Then there are those who give their all: becoming objects of gruesome persecution at the hands of Antiochus IV himself. There are no easy paths to follow, but those were no simple times.
The tale itself is told masterfully and the reader is slowly drawn into the world of the second century B.C. Historical figures find their way into the tale, Antiochus IV makes several appearances, but only after sufficient time to grasp the setting of Jerusalem at that day. The account is believable and the personal touches are compelling. Detailed account of sacrifices in the Temple and personal prayers are sure to inspire devotion in the reader. Historical details are abundant and the author weaves a picture of life in Jerusalem in full color.
The backstory to the rebellion takes most of the attention, along with the personal challenges to accommodate or persevere. But enough of the action is told to satisfy the curiosity of the reader who may know what is coming. Still it made me want to pick up a copy of I and II Maccabees (or is it III and IV Maccabees?).
One feature of the story deserves special attention. The author appears to describe the book of Daniel (in the form we know it today) being written during the Maccabean period. He still has the prophecy tell the future, but not from Daniel’s hand. “The spirit of Daniel” rests on the book’s author. Since other characters betray knowledge of Daniel’s example of faith in the face of apostasy, not every reader will pick up on this point. But it seemed clear to me the author must hold to a late author for at least the visions of Daniel. This point is not vital to the storyline and the conservative who holds to a sixth century B.C. date for the book of Daniel can easily disregard it.
For a first novel the book does not disappoint. At times there were some artificial elements. The Maccabean rebels at one point sound almost like the Covenanters of Scotland. But on the whole the book does a superb job of telling the Maccabean story in a personal and poignant way. I highly recommend it.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher. I was under no obligation to offer a positive review.
December 31, 2015
For a variety of reasons the story of the Maccabean revolt is not a well-known story for many Christians, especially Protestants. We may know that many scholars believe that the apocalyptic book of Daniel likely emerged during this period, but most have not read the books of Maccabees and other books of the Apocrapha. One way to enter into the conversation about this period is to read a novelization of the story. Such is what biblical scholar David A. deSilva of Ashland Theological Seminary has done.
The writing of novels is an exercise that must be engaged in with great care and skill. Not everyone is a novelist, and biblical scholars are probably not programmed for such a work (I would agree to add in theologians as well). I took up this novel with a wait and see attitude. I was intrigued by the subject -- the Maccabean Revolt -- and I have been following the author's career since I published what was probably his first published work many years ago when I was editing a graduate student journal for Fuller Theological Seminary. I must say I found the book well written and engaging. It is thought-provoking, engaging, and in line with what we know of the period and its peoples. The author does a good job developing the characters, some of whom are not very appealing.
Being that this is a historical novel, deSilva brings historical characters such as the Seleucid king Antiochus IV, along with high priests Honiah, Jason, and the rather evil and capricious Meneleus. Of course, we also meet up with Mattathias and his five sons who led the Maccabean revolt and established a new Jewish kingdom in the second century. Their stories are mixed into those of key characters whom deSilva creates to give us a broader picture of the times and places.
The story begins with efforts undertaken by Jason, younger brother of the High Priest Honiah, to more fully integrate the Jewish community into the broader Greek world that existed under the Seleucid kingdom, which descended from the empire of Alexander. Jason had a high regard for Greek culture and thought he could integrate it with his Jewish religion -- updating Judaism, but keeping its best components. His brother however resisted much of these efforts, and Jason was drawn into a circle of people who found traditional Judaism way too constricting and wanted to essentially abandon it. Menaleus is the key person in this effort, and he eventually supplants Jason, and seeks to erase as much of the old ways as possible. This leads, as one might expect, to resistance and the eventual Maccabean revolt.
I wouldn't want to tell the whole story, because I don't want to spoil one's reading of the story. Many readers will know something about Antiochus and his efforts to make Judea a fully integrated Greek region, laying aside earlier accommodations to Jewish religious sensibilities, to the point of installing a statue of himself in the Temple. Our author takes up these issues, bringing them to life in a way that a monograph, even one written for the general audience, probably could not.
What I can say here is that the reading of the book will raise important questions as to the challenges of remaining faithful in an alien culture. It is possible that as you read you might find yourself feeling a bit uncomfortable with the accommodations you have made to culture -- I know I did.
Once again, this is a well written, engaging novel that drew in even a person not give to reading a lot of novels! As the story developed I found it difficult to put down!
The writing of novels is an exercise that must be engaged in with great care and skill. Not everyone is a novelist, and biblical scholars are probably not programmed for such a work (I would agree to add in theologians as well). I took up this novel with a wait and see attitude. I was intrigued by the subject -- the Maccabean Revolt -- and I have been following the author's career since I published what was probably his first published work many years ago when I was editing a graduate student journal for Fuller Theological Seminary. I must say I found the book well written and engaging. It is thought-provoking, engaging, and in line with what we know of the period and its peoples. The author does a good job developing the characters, some of whom are not very appealing.
Being that this is a historical novel, deSilva brings historical characters such as the Seleucid king Antiochus IV, along with high priests Honiah, Jason, and the rather evil and capricious Meneleus. Of course, we also meet up with Mattathias and his five sons who led the Maccabean revolt and established a new Jewish kingdom in the second century. Their stories are mixed into those of key characters whom deSilva creates to give us a broader picture of the times and places.
The story begins with efforts undertaken by Jason, younger brother of the High Priest Honiah, to more fully integrate the Jewish community into the broader Greek world that existed under the Seleucid kingdom, which descended from the empire of Alexander. Jason had a high regard for Greek culture and thought he could integrate it with his Jewish religion -- updating Judaism, but keeping its best components. His brother however resisted much of these efforts, and Jason was drawn into a circle of people who found traditional Judaism way too constricting and wanted to essentially abandon it. Menaleus is the key person in this effort, and he eventually supplants Jason, and seeks to erase as much of the old ways as possible. This leads, as one might expect, to resistance and the eventual Maccabean revolt.
I wouldn't want to tell the whole story, because I don't want to spoil one's reading of the story. Many readers will know something about Antiochus and his efforts to make Judea a fully integrated Greek region, laying aside earlier accommodations to Jewish religious sensibilities, to the point of installing a statue of himself in the Temple. Our author takes up these issues, bringing them to life in a way that a monograph, even one written for the general audience, probably could not.
What I can say here is that the reading of the book will raise important questions as to the challenges of remaining faithful in an alien culture. It is possible that as you read you might find yourself feeling a bit uncomfortable with the accommodations you have made to culture -- I know I did.
Once again, this is a well written, engaging novel that drew in even a person not give to reading a lot of novels! As the story developed I found it difficult to put down!
August 28, 2015
The setting of Day of Atonement is one of the greatest strengths of the novel. De Silva masterfully paints Jerusalem as it was during the second century B.C. His attention to historical detail in regard to the temple sacrifices and Greek architecture are well-researched and informative. The story is an interesting vehicle in which to show the inter-testamental time in biblical history and highlight events that very few Christians know about.
Day of Atonement is told through multiple points of view, balanced between the Hebrew and the Greek perspectives. Each character has a unique voice and personality which is the key ingredient for an interesting story. However, the dialogue is used to inform the reader and make a moral point. As a result, the narrative has a stop-and-go feel to it, which is frustrating.
The novel has all the elements of a successful plot. There is interesting dialogue, fascinating historical detail, and heart-pounding action in places. However, the narrative lacks balance and has an uneven flow, hampering the aim of a successful and entertaining story; the author puts too much attention on deviant behavior and gratuitous violence, a disappointing distraction from this very informative and potentially entertaining read.
The characters in Day of Atonement are likable and sympathetic, but it seems they are playing roles and pulled along with the plotline. The emphasis is placed on their actions rather than their personalities. As a result, the characters never quite reach their full potential and Day of Atonement isn’t as deep as it could be.
The conflict in Day of Atonement is mostly driven by external events. Each character must confront complex circumstances due to their poor choices. This causes great internal turmoil as the characters must respond to their changing environment and can no longer straddle the fence. However, they are not free to choose the consequences of their choices. This epic dilemma makes conflict one of the greatest strengths of the story.
Day of Atonement has a definite spiritual message worth heeding. The dangers of compromise and assimilation threaten to swallow Israel, contradicting and undermining God’s commands to His people. Israel’s disobedience would endanger their distinct culture and dilute their hegemony. In the nation’s attempt to accept and live under foreign influence, Israel would almost be annihilated into extinction.
Day of Atonement may be geared to a Christian audience who like informative historical fiction, but may be better suited for secular readers because of graphic material. First, there are some conversations that have sexual innuendo. One could reasonably expect this when the Greek culture is depicted in a secular novel, but it is surprising to find coarse language in a Christian account. Is there some other way to communicate the differences in the Greek and Jewish societies without resorting to offensive language? In addition, the violence made some of the scenes difficult to read. It is not for the faint-hearted. The torture portrayed in the novel may be historically accurate but incredibly brutal, so readers should be forewarned.
In short, with its rich historical setting and incredible conflict, Day of Atonement has potential. However, because of its uneven plot and gratuitous violence, it is average.
Day of Atonement is told through multiple points of view, balanced between the Hebrew and the Greek perspectives. Each character has a unique voice and personality which is the key ingredient for an interesting story. However, the dialogue is used to inform the reader and make a moral point. As a result, the narrative has a stop-and-go feel to it, which is frustrating.
The novel has all the elements of a successful plot. There is interesting dialogue, fascinating historical detail, and heart-pounding action in places. However, the narrative lacks balance and has an uneven flow, hampering the aim of a successful and entertaining story; the author puts too much attention on deviant behavior and gratuitous violence, a disappointing distraction from this very informative and potentially entertaining read.
The characters in Day of Atonement are likable and sympathetic, but it seems they are playing roles and pulled along with the plotline. The emphasis is placed on their actions rather than their personalities. As a result, the characters never quite reach their full potential and Day of Atonement isn’t as deep as it could be.
The conflict in Day of Atonement is mostly driven by external events. Each character must confront complex circumstances due to their poor choices. This causes great internal turmoil as the characters must respond to their changing environment and can no longer straddle the fence. However, they are not free to choose the consequences of their choices. This epic dilemma makes conflict one of the greatest strengths of the story.
Day of Atonement has a definite spiritual message worth heeding. The dangers of compromise and assimilation threaten to swallow Israel, contradicting and undermining God’s commands to His people. Israel’s disobedience would endanger their distinct culture and dilute their hegemony. In the nation’s attempt to accept and live under foreign influence, Israel would almost be annihilated into extinction.
Day of Atonement may be geared to a Christian audience who like informative historical fiction, but may be better suited for secular readers because of graphic material. First, there are some conversations that have sexual innuendo. One could reasonably expect this when the Greek culture is depicted in a secular novel, but it is surprising to find coarse language in a Christian account. Is there some other way to communicate the differences in the Greek and Jewish societies without resorting to offensive language? In addition, the violence made some of the scenes difficult to read. It is not for the faint-hearted. The torture portrayed in the novel may be historically accurate but incredibly brutal, so readers should be forewarned.
In short, with its rich historical setting and incredible conflict, Day of Atonement has potential. However, because of its uneven plot and gratuitous violence, it is average.
December 4, 2015
This well-researched book attempts to answer questions about a segment of Jewish history that is not well known. What happened in Jerusalem after Alexander the Great conquered the known world? How did faithful Jews deal with the influx of Greek culture and ideas? Why did so many Jews eagerly adopt ways of their Greek masters? How much can you assimilate and still keep your identity as a people? What happens when religious beliefs interfere with business and making money? What happens when the dominating culture slowly eats away at the religious expression of the conquered people? The reader is invited to explore these issues by seeing through the eyes of various well-developed characters.
We find Jason who desperately wanted his hometown of Jerusalem to gain status as a cultured and intellectual center of the Greek Empire. He was willing to compromise the “old-fashioned” moral and religious codes of Judaism to achieve greatness for his city and himself. He wanted to “go along to get along”. His brother, Honiah, the High Priest, fought any “progress” that might come at the cost of violating the covenant with God. He was committed to keeping the ancestral traditions that defined the identity of the Jewish people as God’s chosen. And then there were the rebels who had their own plans for a Jerusalem without foreign domination and with freedom to worship as devout Jews. The Maccabean Revolt, like any other attempt to settle issues with violence, was bloody and heartbreaking.
The author brings this turbulent and little known period of time to life as the reader follows Jason, Honiah, and their compatriots deal with political maneuvering, backstabbing, and other divisive actions as they strove to bring their vision for Jerusalem into being. I learned details of temple ritual I never knew and gained a much better understanding of the mindset that leads to rebellion and change. It is not a book that can be rushed through, although the writing style is very engaging and readable. The multitude of names could be confusing, but the author offers an annotated list of characters to help the reader keep everyone straight. I received this book through The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest opinion.
We find Jason who desperately wanted his hometown of Jerusalem to gain status as a cultured and intellectual center of the Greek Empire. He was willing to compromise the “old-fashioned” moral and religious codes of Judaism to achieve greatness for his city and himself. He wanted to “go along to get along”. His brother, Honiah, the High Priest, fought any “progress” that might come at the cost of violating the covenant with God. He was committed to keeping the ancestral traditions that defined the identity of the Jewish people as God’s chosen. And then there were the rebels who had their own plans for a Jerusalem without foreign domination and with freedom to worship as devout Jews. The Maccabean Revolt, like any other attempt to settle issues with violence, was bloody and heartbreaking.
The author brings this turbulent and little known period of time to life as the reader follows Jason, Honiah, and their compatriots deal with political maneuvering, backstabbing, and other divisive actions as they strove to bring their vision for Jerusalem into being. I learned details of temple ritual I never knew and gained a much better understanding of the mindset that leads to rebellion and change. It is not a book that can be rushed through, although the writing style is very engaging and readable. The multitude of names could be confusing, but the author offers an annotated list of characters to help the reader keep everyone straight. I received this book through The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest opinion.
July 21, 2015
David A. deSilva in his new book, “Day Of Atonement” published by Kregel Publications gives us A Novel of the Maccabean Revolt.
From the back cover: In the blank pages between Malachi and Matthew, the course of an entire nation was changed . . .
The Greeks have taken over the world, but Jerusalem is still the same backwater city Jason has always known. He wants to help his hometown rise to a new age of prosperity and influence. If that means stretching the terms of the city s divine covenant, so be it. But how far is he willing to go to achieve Greek greatness for this Jewish city? And whose lives will be forfeited in the process?
Written by an internationally recognized expert in the period between the Testaments, Day of Atonement invites readers into Judea during the tumultuous years leading up to the Maccabean Revolt. It was this pivotal decade that reminded Jews of the centrality of the covenant to their national security and taught them that the covenant was worth dying for. The story is so foundational, it is still told every year at Hanukkah. The lessons learned during this turbulent time also shed light on just what was at stake in the ministry of Jesus, whose radical message seemed to threaten the covenant once again.
I had no idea the events in this story actually happened. I even had no idea that there are two books that did not make it into our Bible but can be found in what is called the Apocrypha. This is history and it is the events between the Old and New Testaments. Having said all this I need to tell you that this is exciting. The book is filled with well drawn and interesting characters. “Day Of Atonement” is filled with tension and many twist and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Mr. deSilva is highly talented and keeps the story moving at a very high level of quality, though every so often it does slow down a touch.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Kregel Publications. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: In the blank pages between Malachi and Matthew, the course of an entire nation was changed . . .
The Greeks have taken over the world, but Jerusalem is still the same backwater city Jason has always known. He wants to help his hometown rise to a new age of prosperity and influence. If that means stretching the terms of the city s divine covenant, so be it. But how far is he willing to go to achieve Greek greatness for this Jewish city? And whose lives will be forfeited in the process?
Written by an internationally recognized expert in the period between the Testaments, Day of Atonement invites readers into Judea during the tumultuous years leading up to the Maccabean Revolt. It was this pivotal decade that reminded Jews of the centrality of the covenant to their national security and taught them that the covenant was worth dying for. The story is so foundational, it is still told every year at Hanukkah. The lessons learned during this turbulent time also shed light on just what was at stake in the ministry of Jesus, whose radical message seemed to threaten the covenant once again.
I had no idea the events in this story actually happened. I even had no idea that there are two books that did not make it into our Bible but can be found in what is called the Apocrypha. This is history and it is the events between the Old and New Testaments. Having said all this I need to tell you that this is exciting. The book is filled with well drawn and interesting characters. “Day Of Atonement” is filled with tension and many twist and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Mr. deSilva is highly talented and keeps the story moving at a very high level of quality, though every so often it does slow down a touch.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Kregel Publications. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
July 13, 2015
The period between the Old and New Testaments is one I know very little about. If asked, I could tell you that an event during the Maccabean Revolt is the reason for Hanukah, but that’s it. Thanks to this gripping new novel I now know a lot more, including some of the reasons for it.
I immediately noticed that the main theme was Judaism versus other religions. The Jews believed in one God, while the Greeks worshiped many gods. Some of the higher standing citizens felt Jerusalem could only advance if non-Jewish newcomers weren’t restricted by Jewish law. What started as a tolerance for all religions gradually became intolerance for the Jewish faith. The more the people of God protested the changes, the more the authorities cracked down on them and their beliefs. There were immense power struggles between various Greek officials, and a lot of regret and bewilderment over how an idea once considered a good thing snowballed into something so horrific. Could it be stopped peacefully? Could it be stopped at all?
Day of Atonement is like a slow crescendo. Each event gradually leads to a terrible finale which takes place in a desecrated temple. It’s described in brutal detail, and some readers will prefer not to read of such scenes, but we cannot pretend that atrocities such as these didn’t take place. Instead, we should contemplate the bravery of the victims. They did not surrender their faith when facing torture and death. Can we do the same?
This is a book rich in historical detail, and includes many people mentioned in ancient sources. Jason and his brother did exist, as did King Antiochus IV and several of the officials that appear. It’s a readable insight into this mysterious period and I’m a little disappointed that it ends where it does. I also think it’s a book that is very relevant considering contemporary events. What happens when we compromise our faith in small things? How often will that lead to compromises in bigger issues? The beginning of the Maccabean Revolt shows us that a slippery slope always gets steeper.
Thank you to Kregel Publications for my complimentary copy of Day of Atonement, which I received in exchange for my honest review.
I immediately noticed that the main theme was Judaism versus other religions. The Jews believed in one God, while the Greeks worshiped many gods. Some of the higher standing citizens felt Jerusalem could only advance if non-Jewish newcomers weren’t restricted by Jewish law. What started as a tolerance for all religions gradually became intolerance for the Jewish faith. The more the people of God protested the changes, the more the authorities cracked down on them and their beliefs. There were immense power struggles between various Greek officials, and a lot of regret and bewilderment over how an idea once considered a good thing snowballed into something so horrific. Could it be stopped peacefully? Could it be stopped at all?
Day of Atonement is like a slow crescendo. Each event gradually leads to a terrible finale which takes place in a desecrated temple. It’s described in brutal detail, and some readers will prefer not to read of such scenes, but we cannot pretend that atrocities such as these didn’t take place. Instead, we should contemplate the bravery of the victims. They did not surrender their faith when facing torture and death. Can we do the same?
This is a book rich in historical detail, and includes many people mentioned in ancient sources. Jason and his brother did exist, as did King Antiochus IV and several of the officials that appear. It’s a readable insight into this mysterious period and I’m a little disappointed that it ends where it does. I also think it’s a book that is very relevant considering contemporary events. What happens when we compromise our faith in small things? How often will that lead to compromises in bigger issues? The beginning of the Maccabean Revolt shows us that a slippery slope always gets steeper.
Thank you to Kregel Publications for my complimentary copy of Day of Atonement, which I received in exchange for my honest review.
April 16, 2016
For a long time I've wanted to read a novel about the Maccabean Revolt and the story of Hanukkah. It's a historical event that comes with its own built-in story arc of conflict, courage, and triumph against all physical odds. It's set in a fascinating time period we don't hear much about, but that greatly affected future centuries.
At last someone wrote such a novel.
I began reading it during Hanukkah, and immediately it brought home to me the themes of the festival: dedication to God and refusal to assimilate with the ungodly customs of the cultures around us. I was amazed at the level of research David deSilva brought to the book, infusing life into a little-known era. He showed how the deliberate, agonizing process of corruption and assimilation slid Israel into the catastrophe that opens the Book of Maccabees.
I loved the historical detail, particularly the pages that covered the temple service. It gave a good and not too heavy explanation of Jewish, Greek, and even Roman politics. It was a (at times) slow-moving political novel rather than a fast-moving thriller, but that's okay, because I think the process of assimilation was essential to show. It'd be absolutely wonderful if he wrote a sequel that portrayed more of the revolution. The only complaint I had was that the book ended too soon (hence my ardent desire for a sequel!).
The characters were more for illustrating the environment than deeply developed people in themselves, but overall I didn't mind because the events were so important to focus on.
While reading, I couldn't help but see the relevance to Christians in today's age. We are tempted everywhere to fit in with customs that go against God's Word. When the faithful Jews took their stand, I felt so exultant. If we are ever faced with such persecution, their example as detailed in this book might help us stand for the Lord like they did.
I recommend this book for anyone who wants a better understanding of this significant yet neglected time period in Israel's history.
At last someone wrote such a novel.
I began reading it during Hanukkah, and immediately it brought home to me the themes of the festival: dedication to God and refusal to assimilate with the ungodly customs of the cultures around us. I was amazed at the level of research David deSilva brought to the book, infusing life into a little-known era. He showed how the deliberate, agonizing process of corruption and assimilation slid Israel into the catastrophe that opens the Book of Maccabees.
I loved the historical detail, particularly the pages that covered the temple service. It gave a good and not too heavy explanation of Jewish, Greek, and even Roman politics. It was a (at times) slow-moving political novel rather than a fast-moving thriller, but that's okay, because I think the process of assimilation was essential to show. It'd be absolutely wonderful if he wrote a sequel that portrayed more of the revolution. The only complaint I had was that the book ended too soon (hence my ardent desire for a sequel!).
The characters were more for illustrating the environment than deeply developed people in themselves, but overall I didn't mind because the events were so important to focus on.
While reading, I couldn't help but see the relevance to Christians in today's age. We are tempted everywhere to fit in with customs that go against God's Word. When the faithful Jews took their stand, I felt so exultant. If we are ever faced with such persecution, their example as detailed in this book might help us stand for the Lord like they did.
I recommend this book for anyone who wants a better understanding of this significant yet neglected time period in Israel's history.
July 19, 2015
Day of Atonement
A Novel of the Maccabean Revolt
By David A. deSilva
I have to admit the Maccabean Revolt has always fascinated me. This is the empty space between the Old and New Testaments and to a young child somewhat confusing. Why is there a gap in the story? Raised within the Protestant church this wasn't touched on. And High School Ancient World History just briefly flew by it.
My father had a New Jerusalem Bible that contained the Apocrypha which I read at 12 years of age. I have to admit it was somewhat confusing. Thanks to Day of Atonement I now have an understanding of this era that has been forgotten by most of the non-Jewish world.
Jerusalem is in a period of upheaval as those who live within this City of God fight for political and spiritual dominance. Some still hold the Law of Moses in high regard while those with wealth are determined to follow the path of the Greeks who have surrounded the lands bringing with them their wealth and culture.
I'm amazed at the similarities between this world and our own at this time. Peace has been fleeting throughout our history and the time of the Maccabean revolt is no different as brother challenges brother. A city is torn apart as territories are fought for and land and people of the One God are again caught up in their unwillingness to hold firm to the promises and laws of God.
Day of Atonement is a lesson in both history and human nature. We, as a world, are for the most part unwilling to follow God's teachings especially if it might prevent us from finding enjoyment in something He has forbidden us from taking part in.
If you are interested in well-written historical fiction or have a curiosity about the Maccabean revolt pick-up a copy of this book and peruse it's pages, you may find yourself surprised by what you find.
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher Kregel in exchange for my honest review.
A Novel of the Maccabean Revolt
By David A. deSilva
I have to admit the Maccabean Revolt has always fascinated me. This is the empty space between the Old and New Testaments and to a young child somewhat confusing. Why is there a gap in the story? Raised within the Protestant church this wasn't touched on. And High School Ancient World History just briefly flew by it.
My father had a New Jerusalem Bible that contained the Apocrypha which I read at 12 years of age. I have to admit it was somewhat confusing. Thanks to Day of Atonement I now have an understanding of this era that has been forgotten by most of the non-Jewish world.
Jerusalem is in a period of upheaval as those who live within this City of God fight for political and spiritual dominance. Some still hold the Law of Moses in high regard while those with wealth are determined to follow the path of the Greeks who have surrounded the lands bringing with them their wealth and culture.
I'm amazed at the similarities between this world and our own at this time. Peace has been fleeting throughout our history and the time of the Maccabean revolt is no different as brother challenges brother. A city is torn apart as territories are fought for and land and people of the One God are again caught up in their unwillingness to hold firm to the promises and laws of God.
Day of Atonement is a lesson in both history and human nature. We, as a world, are for the most part unwilling to follow God's teachings especially if it might prevent us from finding enjoyment in something He has forbidden us from taking part in.
If you are interested in well-written historical fiction or have a curiosity about the Maccabean revolt pick-up a copy of this book and peruse it's pages, you may find yourself surprised by what you find.
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher Kregel in exchange for my honest review.
October 15, 2015
David DeSilva has done an incredible job of recreating the Maccabean Revolt in his novel Day of Atonement. Well researched and well written, this story gives the reader a glimpse of the often overlooked years between the Old and New Testament. Alexander the Great had taken over much of the known world and Hellenization of the conquered lands was a major objective of the Greeks. Jerusalem was not to be let off the hook. Hoping to bring fortune and distinction to the Holy City of the Israelites, less than devout Jewish leaders began to work towards the integration of all things Gentile and Jewish. They had 'chosen friendship with the goyim over friendship with God.' (p. 121) The mix of politics and religion ultimately lead to desecration of the Temple and to the king and false priests decreeing that the Jewish people may no longer worship their God as they have done for a thousand years. Brother is pitted against brother as the resistance begins. The push-back to the resistance brings torture and slaughter. Yet a remnant of God's chosen people remained true to the One and Only God, offering their lives on behalf of their nation, crying, 'Restore your people, restore your covenant.' DeSilva develops his characters well and paints excellent word pictures as he gives details of this time period, the decor of residences of the wealthy and the Temple, the savory cuisine of celebratory meals and the daily life and worship of the residents of Jerusalem. To help the reader keep straight the large number of historical and fictional figures, a list of characters is included which highlights names of people known from historical sources. A compelling story of a courageous people that can serve as a warning to believers today.
I received a copy of this book through The Book Club Network (bookfun.org) in exchange for my honest review. I have posted reviews on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Deepershopping.com, Christianbook.com, Booksamillion.com, Bookfun.org, and GoodReads.
I received a copy of this book through The Book Club Network (bookfun.org) in exchange for my honest review. I have posted reviews on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Deepershopping.com, Christianbook.com, Booksamillion.com, Bookfun.org, and GoodReads.
August 14, 2015
"Day of Atonement" by David deSilva is "A novel of the Maccabean Revolt." I believe many, many hours of research went into writing this book! It is filled with historical details(many of them unknown to lots of folks), bringing history to life. It strikes me as very interesting that faith and politics are still, today, an issue just as they were back then. Day of Atonement will make you ponder how strong is your faith? Would it stand up to torture or would you "change" your beliefs to better fit society??
This story starts where the Old Testament ends. There are many main characters, some fictional and some historical, and this can be a bit confusing at times. There are two set of brothers, in both families one stands firm in his beliefs, the other, not so much. When they allow the Greeks to come into Jerusalem and start taking over little things soon become big things. The slight progression into evil soon becomes bigger and bigger. What originally seemed "harmless," such as making an idol or teaching the Greek language to kids, has suddenly become huge and very harmful! The harder the Jewish leaders try to teach the Torah and stand firm in their beliefs, the harder those rebelling taunt and ridicule them, trying to get them to change their faith and give up their old fashioned ways.
This story is rich with historical detail and information. I think anyone that loves biblical history will enjoy this book. That said, I would be amiss to not mention the extent of the violence. There is a lot of it, and some of it is quite graphic. Granted, the torture is possibly accurate to the times these folks were living in. This is not an easy reading, light book, it is deep and for me, occasionally confusing.
I received this book from The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
This story starts where the Old Testament ends. There are many main characters, some fictional and some historical, and this can be a bit confusing at times. There are two set of brothers, in both families one stands firm in his beliefs, the other, not so much. When they allow the Greeks to come into Jerusalem and start taking over little things soon become big things. The slight progression into evil soon becomes bigger and bigger. What originally seemed "harmless," such as making an idol or teaching the Greek language to kids, has suddenly become huge and very harmful! The harder the Jewish leaders try to teach the Torah and stand firm in their beliefs, the harder those rebelling taunt and ridicule them, trying to get them to change their faith and give up their old fashioned ways.
This story is rich with historical detail and information. I think anyone that loves biblical history will enjoy this book. That said, I would be amiss to not mention the extent of the violence. There is a lot of it, and some of it is quite graphic. Granted, the torture is possibly accurate to the times these folks were living in. This is not an easy reading, light book, it is deep and for me, occasionally confusing.
I received this book from The Book Club Network in exchange for my honest review.
July 13, 2015
Daniel deSilva’s debut novel, Day of Atonement, takes place in the time between the Testaments. A seminary professor, deSilva’s subject matter, the Maccabean uprising, is not well known to many Christians particularly, Protestants. He drew upon the Apocrypha for his inspiration and produced a novel that those interested in Biblical history will find interesting. It also is a book that will make you think, causing the reader to draw a parallel between the Hellenized Jewish faith of the the last centuries before the birth of Christ and the modern day Christian church.
DeSilva uses both historical and fictional characters to explore the political and religious culture of Judea in the time of Seleucid domination of the region. Greek culture is seen by many intellectuals and society elites in Jerusalem as the means to advance the nation of Israel. Backward religious rites, adherence to outmoded laws and religious texts relegated to mythical stories are sneered at by those who know what is best for the nation set aside by God. Compromise and assimilation lead to a watered down and polluted version of true faith.
While the historical context of the novel is interesting, I found myself thinking more and more about the Christian church in western society. There is much to think about as the church begins to look more and more like the culture surrounding it. The narrative is a bit slow, but the research is solid, and I believe fans of strict history will like this book. Interesting and little known events combine with eternal truths to create a novel for those who like to be challenged by their fiction.
Audience: adults.
To purchase a copy of this book, click HERE.
(Thanks to Kregel for a review copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
DeSilva uses both historical and fictional characters to explore the political and religious culture of Judea in the time of Seleucid domination of the region. Greek culture is seen by many intellectuals and society elites in Jerusalem as the means to advance the nation of Israel. Backward religious rites, adherence to outmoded laws and religious texts relegated to mythical stories are sneered at by those who know what is best for the nation set aside by God. Compromise and assimilation lead to a watered down and polluted version of true faith.
While the historical context of the novel is interesting, I found myself thinking more and more about the Christian church in western society. There is much to think about as the church begins to look more and more like the culture surrounding it. The narrative is a bit slow, but the research is solid, and I believe fans of strict history will like this book. Interesting and little known events combine with eternal truths to create a novel for those who like to be challenged by their fiction.
Audience: adults.
To purchase a copy of this book, click HERE.
(Thanks to Kregel for a review copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
January 14, 2017
Prior to reading this book, my knowledge of intertestamental history of the Holy Land was fairly limited. It included the high (and low) points of Antiochus Epiphanes, Abomination of Desolation, Maccabean Revolt, and Hanukkah with a few sketchy details. This book has helped fill in some of the details in a memorable way.
Ever since reading The Scribes by Peter Rodgers (an informative but hokey book), I have been a bit leery of biblical scholars who decide to write a novel to introduce their pet topic to the public. However, DeSilva does a a fine job in bringing to life the events leading up to the Maccabean revolt. Most of his characters are a little flat with few distinguishing character traits other than their their political and religious beliefs and actions, but his writing was otherwise clear and engaging (and frequently moving).
There were a couple aspects of the story that I found surprising and want to look into a little more to see if they were artistic license or based on research. The first was that the hellenizing, apostate high priest Menelaus rather than Antiochus Epiphanies is presented as the driving force behind the worst abuses and desecration. The other is the existence and acceptance of prophets during this period. I know there were people out there producing pseudepigraphal apocalyptic works (e.g. Jubilees & the Apocalypse of Enoch), but some previous reading/studying I have done has suggested that there were no recognized authoritative prophets at this time.
Overall, this was a fun way to learn a bit more about this period of history, and if deSilva writes a sequel detailing the rest of the Maccabean Revolt through the cleansing of the temple I will definitely read it!
Ever since reading The Scribes by Peter Rodgers (an informative but hokey book), I have been a bit leery of biblical scholars who decide to write a novel to introduce their pet topic to the public. However, DeSilva does a a fine job in bringing to life the events leading up to the Maccabean revolt. Most of his characters are a little flat with few distinguishing character traits other than their their political and religious beliefs and actions, but his writing was otherwise clear and engaging (and frequently moving).
There were a couple aspects of the story that I found surprising and want to look into a little more to see if they were artistic license or based on research. The first was that the hellenizing, apostate high priest Menelaus rather than Antiochus Epiphanies is presented as the driving force behind the worst abuses and desecration. The other is the existence and acceptance of prophets during this period. I know there were people out there producing pseudepigraphal apocalyptic works (e.g. Jubilees & the Apocalypse of Enoch), but some previous reading/studying I have done has suggested that there were no recognized authoritative prophets at this time.
Overall, this was a fun way to learn a bit more about this period of history, and if deSilva writes a sequel detailing the rest of the Maccabean Revolt through the cleansing of the temple I will definitely read it!
July 19, 2015
Though I am fairly Protestant, I have read Maccabees several times (part of the Catholic Deutro-canonical books). Several parts of the Maccabean story sit behind the events of the New Testament (such as Jesus' triumphal entry and the cleansing of the temple). David deSliva is a New Testament scholar who I have read some and have appreciated his insights (actually the first thing I read from deSilva was a response to a negative review on one of Gordon Fee's books on Amazon).
In The Day of Atonement : A Novel of the Maccabean Revolt, Desilva presents a novelization of the Maccabean revolt which is meticulously researched and reflects a deSilva's scholarly understanding of the Maccabean revolt. As someone who has read Maccabees and has often lost the plot, I appreciate the clarity of deSilva's prose. I learned stuff.
That being said, I didn't find this to be compelling literature. If you enjoy historical novels you will likely appreciate the care that DeSilva takes in presenting these events. This is didactic fiction--teaching history through story. For what it is, it is pretty good. I give it three stars.
Notcie of material connection: I received this book from Kregel Publications in exchange for my honest review.
In The Day of Atonement : A Novel of the Maccabean Revolt, Desilva presents a novelization of the Maccabean revolt which is meticulously researched and reflects a deSilva's scholarly understanding of the Maccabean revolt. As someone who has read Maccabees and has often lost the plot, I appreciate the clarity of deSilva's prose. I learned stuff.
That being said, I didn't find this to be compelling literature. If you enjoy historical novels you will likely appreciate the care that DeSilva takes in presenting these events. This is didactic fiction--teaching history through story. For what it is, it is pretty good. I give it three stars.
Notcie of material connection: I received this book from Kregel Publications in exchange for my honest review.
August 14, 2015
How many of us as Christians have ever really thought about the unknown years from the Old Testament to the New Testament? During this time there was an upheaval in the nation. The world has been taken over by the Greeks. The story takes us to Judea and what may have happened during this turbulent time that lead to the Maccabean War. The people of Jerusalem believe in one God and the Greeks worship many Gods causing an intense power struggle.
I had no idea that most of the characters were true to this time period in History. David deSilva has done an outstanding job in his research. Matching historical events with fiction.
Jason the brother of the High Priest Honiah wants to integrate Jerusalem with the Greek world. How far will he go to bring his city to a cultural status of greatness?
It is amazing how this time period compares with us today. Tolerance for all religions and gradually intolerance
for the faith of Jews and Christians.
I applaud Mr. deSilva for his outstanding talent in writing this captivating and enlightening book.
If you love to read historical fiction about the Bible then I highly recommend you read this book.
I received free copy of this book from bookfun.org for my honest opinion and review
I had no idea that most of the characters were true to this time period in History. David deSilva has done an outstanding job in his research. Matching historical events with fiction.
Jason the brother of the High Priest Honiah wants to integrate Jerusalem with the Greek world. How far will he go to bring his city to a cultural status of greatness?
It is amazing how this time period compares with us today. Tolerance for all religions and gradually intolerance
for the faith of Jews and Christians.
I applaud Mr. deSilva for his outstanding talent in writing this captivating and enlightening book.
If you love to read historical fiction about the Bible then I highly recommend you read this book.
I received free copy of this book from bookfun.org for my honest opinion and review
August 30, 2016
Day of Atonement is one of many books by David A. deSilva, a renowned professor of New Testament and Greek at Ashland Theological Seminary. The historical novel relates the missing years between Malachi and Matthew.
The progressive ideas and attitude of Jason (Yeshua), a Zakodite priest, lead to the supplanting of his brother, Honiah III, as high priest and the infiltration of Greek ideas and their culture into Jerusalem. Greedy and ambitious Menelaus who replaces Jason as high priest and power-hungry Antiochus, king of Seleucid Empire, bring persecution and destruction to God’s holy city. A remnant of Jews realizes that the only recourse is to resist this evil domination and re-establish their obedience and oath to the One true God.
This is an interesting and very informative historical fiction of an important and pivotal time in Jewish history. I received this book through TBCN in exchange for an honest opinion.
The progressive ideas and attitude of Jason (Yeshua), a Zakodite priest, lead to the supplanting of his brother, Honiah III, as high priest and the infiltration of Greek ideas and their culture into Jerusalem. Greedy and ambitious Menelaus who replaces Jason as high priest and power-hungry Antiochus, king of Seleucid Empire, bring persecution and destruction to God’s holy city. A remnant of Jews realizes that the only recourse is to resist this evil domination and re-establish their obedience and oath to the One true God.
This is an interesting and very informative historical fiction of an important and pivotal time in Jewish history. I received this book through TBCN in exchange for an honest opinion.
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September 9, 2015This review is also posted on Book by Book.
David DeSilva’s Day of Atonement kept me fascinated with a time in history previously unfamiliar to me. Rich in historical detail, this well-paced novel delves into the complicated circumstances surrounding Maccabean Revolt. With well-developed characters and authentic feeling, DeSilva brings this period to life so well that I really enjoyed this all-around interesting novel. I recommend it to readers interested in biblical fiction, for it is quite a worthwhile and valuable read.
Thanks to Kregel Publications, I received a copy of Day of Atonement and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
David DeSilva’s Day of Atonement kept me fascinated with a time in history previously unfamiliar to me. Rich in historical detail, this well-paced novel delves into the complicated circumstances surrounding Maccabean Revolt. With well-developed characters and authentic feeling, DeSilva brings this period to life so well that I really enjoyed this all-around interesting novel. I recommend it to readers interested in biblical fiction, for it is quite a worthwhile and valuable read.
Thanks to Kregel Publications, I received a copy of Day of Atonement and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
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