25 Since I desire that they live undisturbed like the other nations in my empire, I hereby decree that their Temple be restored to them and that they be allowed to live according to the customs of their ancestors.
26 Please inform them of this decision and assure them of my friendship, so that they may conduct their own affairs in peace, without anything to worry about.”
27 Here is a copy of the king's letter to the Jewish people:“King Antiochus to the Jewish leaders and all the Jews, greetings.
28 I hope that all is going well for you. I am in good health.
29 Menelaus has informed me of your desire to return home and attend to your own affairs.
30 So then, those of you who return home by the 30th of the month of Xanthicus may rest assured that you have nothing to fear.
31 You may continue to observe your food laws and other laws, as you used to do, and no Jew will be punished for any crime done in ignorance.