Topical Bible: Razis

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Topical Encyclopedia

Razis is a figure mentioned in the deuterocanonical book of 2 Maccabees, which is part of the Apocrypha in the Protestant tradition and included in the Catholic and Orthodox biblical canons. His account is found in 2 Maccabees 14:37-46, where he is described as a devout Jew and a patriot of Jerusalem during the time of the Maccabean revolt against the Seleucid Empire.

Historical Context

The account of Razis occurs during the turbulent period of Jewish history in the 2nd century BC, when the Jewish people were under the oppressive rule of the Seleucid king Antiochus IV Epiphanes. This era was marked by severe persecution of the Jewish faith, including the desecration of the Temple in Jerusalem and the imposition of Hellenistic practices. The Maccabean revolt, led by Judas Maccabeus and his brothers, was a response to these oppressive measures, aiming to restore Jewish religious freedom and autonomy.

Biblical Account

Razis is introduced as "a man who loved his fellow citizens and was very well thought of and for his good will was called father of the Jews" (2 Maccabees 14:37). His reputation as a defender of Jewish law and tradition made him a target for Nicanor, a general of the Seleucid army, who sought to capture him as part of his campaign against the Jewish resistance.

When Nicanor's forces attempted to seize Razis, he chose to take his own life rather than fall into enemy hands and be subjected to humiliation or forced apostasy. The account describes his dramatic and determined efforts to end his life, emphasizing his commitment to his faith and his desire to die honorably. In his final moments, Razis is said to have called upon the Lord of life and spirit to restore him to life, demonstrating his unwavering faith in God even in the face of death.

Theological Significance

Razis' account is often interpreted as an example of steadfast faith and martyrdom. His willingness to die rather than compromise his beliefs is seen as a testament to the strength of his conviction and his dedication to the Jewish law. This narrative highlights the theme of faithfulness to God in the face of persecution, a recurring motif in the Maccabean literature.

From a theological perspective, Razis' actions can be viewed as a precursor to the Christian understanding of martyrdom, where individuals choose to suffer or die rather than renounce their faith. His account serves as an inspiration for believers to remain faithful to their convictions, regardless of the cost.

Cultural and Religious Impact

While Razis is not a widely known figure outside of the context of 2 Maccabees, his account contributes to the broader narrative of Jewish resistance and resilience during the Maccabean period. It underscores the importance of religious identity and the lengths to which individuals will go to preserve their faith and heritage.

In Christian tradition, the account of Razis, like other accounts from the Maccabean books, provides historical context for understanding the Jewish background of early Christianity and the concept of martyrdom that would become significant in the early Church. His account is a reminder of the enduring struggle for religious freedom and the courage required to uphold one's beliefs in the face of adversity.

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

RAZIS

ra'-zis (Rhazeis): "An elder of Jerusalem," "lover of his countrymen," and for his good will toward them called "father of the Jews," accused before the Syrian general Nicanor as an opponent of Hellenism. In order to escape falling into the hands of Nicanor's soldiers he committed suicide with the greatest determination in a rather revolting manner (2 Maccabees 14:37;), in his death calling upon "the Lord of life" in the hope of a resurrection. His suicide-contrary to Jewish sentiment-was regarded with approbation by the author of 2 Maccabees (14:42, 43).

Thesaurus

Razis
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia RAZIS. ra'-zis (Rhazeis): "An elder of
Jerusalem," "lover of his countrymen," and for his good will ...
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