Catholic Dictionary
Find accurate definitions of over 5,000 Catholic terms and phrases (including abbreviations). Based on Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.
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GORGIAS
A military leader in the Syrian army, ordered to invade Judah and destroy it (I Maccabees 3:38-39). Judas Maccabeus mustered an army and confronted the Syrians at Emmaus, defeating them decisively (I Maccabees 4:8-25). Gorgias regained the initiative, however, when he beat the Jews in a battle near Jamnia. Later he became the military commissioner for Idumaea and once again confronted his nemesis, Judas. He was not only defeated but barely escaped capture (II Maccabees 12:32-37).
