Bible Dictionary
Maccabees
The Maccabees were the Jewish leaders and family who revolted against Antiochus Epiphanes and defended Jewish worship and national independence. They are more properly called the Hasmoneans.
Biblical Usage
The name does not occur in Scripture. The Maccabean histories describe the defense of Jewish worship, the revolt led by Mattathias and Judas, the purification of the temple, and the eventual securing of Jewish political independence.
Scripture References