63 He talks big now, but soon you won't hear that loud mouth anymore. Dust is all that will remain of him and his plans.
64 My sons, you must find courage and strength in God's Law; then everyone will honor you.
65 Your brother Simon is wise. So always obey him, just as you would obey me.
66 Judas Maccabeus has been a brave fighter all his life. Now he will command your army and lead you in battle.
67 Find soldiers who love God's Law and then lead them to punish everyone who has mistreated your people,
68 including the Gentiles. Always follow God's teaching.
69-70 Mattathias blessed his sons, and then he died. His family buried him in their tomb near the town of Modein. This happened in the year 146 of the Syrian Kingdom, and everyone in Israel mourned for a long time.