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TRYPHO

(Gk. Tryphṓn)

Epithet (“magnificent, luxurious”) of Diodotus, general and later king in the tumultuous latter years of Seleucid rule in Syria, which included Palestine. The consequences of his deeds for policies and events in Judea are recorded in 1 Macc. 11–15.

Trypho first appears in historical sources as a general under Alexander Balas, who wrested the Seleucid throne from Demetrius I Soter in battle (150 b.c.e.). Balas in turn was defeated by supporters of Demetrius’ son, Demetrius II Nicator (145). Trypho used this situation to advance his own power; making Balas’ young son Antiochus VI his ward and claiming the throne in his name. In 142 Trypho had Antiochus VI murdered and claimed the throne for himself. Trypho committed suicide after his defeat in 138 by Antiochus VII Sidetes, brother of Demetrius II.

At the time of these events, the Hasmoneans were increasing their power in Judea. Under Jonathan’s leadership, they attempted to play the rival claimants off against each other, generally with success. Jonathan sided with Antiochus VI and Trypho shortly after they claimed the throne (1 Macc. 11:54-59). However, in 143 Trypho, apparently fearing that the rise of Jewish power would lead to an independent kingdom, became hostile toward the Hasmoneans. He encountered Jonathan’s army at Beth-shan, but he claimed peaceful intentions and showered Jonathan with honors. He persuaded Jonathan to disband his army, keeping only a guard of 1000 men, and to go with him to Ptolemais. Upon their arrival, Jonathan’s guard was massacred (1 Macc. 12:29-48). Jonathan himself was taken hostage and subsequently killed in 142 (1 Macc. 13:12-30).

Leadership of the Hasmoneans now fell upon Jonathan’s brother, Simon, who of course allied himself with Demetrius II. Simon took advantage of Demetrius’ relatively weak position with respect to Trypho to obtain promises of Jewish independence. While Demetrius (and subsequently Antiochus VII) later attempted to revoke these privileges, the Hasmoneans saw the year 142 as the beginning of a new era, when “the yoke of the Gentiles was removed from Israel” (1 Macc. 13:41-42).

Will Soll

Prayer Tents Bible References - Prayer Tents

TRYPHO

Eerdmans Dictionary of the Bible (2000)