The account of Hyrcanus’ death, and of the time of his reign
1 Hyrcanus had three sons, namely, Antigonus, Aristobulus, and Alexander.
2 And Hyrcanus loved Antigonus and Aristobulus; but Alexander was odious to him.
3 And on a time he saw in a dream, that of his sons, Alexander would reign after his death; and this gave him uneasiness.
4 And he did not think fit, while he lived, to set up either of the sons whom he loved, on account of his vision;
5 nor to appoint Alexander king, because he was disliked by him.. Wherefore he deferred the business; that after his death it might take that turn which should please the great and good God.
6 Now the Jews had been, in the time of his father and uncles, united in affection towards them; and prompt to obey them, on account of their subduing of their enemies, and the excellent feats which they performed.
7 They also continued united in affection to Hyrcanus; until the slaughter of the Pharisees was committed by him, and the rooting out of the Jews, and the civil wars on account of religion.
8 From hence sprung perpetual enmities, and ceaseless evils, and many murders. Which was the reason why many detested Hyrcanus.
9 Now the time of his reign was thirty-one? years, and he died.