In 166 B.C. in Judea lived a priest and legislator Eleazar, known for his wisdom and piety. He was forced to eat pork, which was strictly forbidden by God. Eleazar preferred to courageously accept a martyr's death rather than violate God's law. He said: “The Lord, who has perfect knowledge, knows that I, having the opportunity to escape death, willingly endure cruel sufferings out of fear of God.”
Among the martyrs were also the seven brothers Maccabees with their mother Solomonia. They were also compelled to violate the law. One of the brothers, speaking for all, said: “We are ready to die rather than transgress the laws.” The king ordered them to be tortured, cutting off their tongues and stripping their skin. Each of the brothers courageously accepted the torments, affirming their faith in God and hope for resurrection.
Their mother, the holy Solomonia, urged her youngest son not to fear the torturer and to be worthy of his brothers so that they could be together in eternal life. After the tortures of all her sons, she also accepted death, rejoicing that they all laid down their souls for the law of the Lord Almighty.
