“When Demetrius heard of these things he was distressed and said.
‘What is this that we have done?
Alexander has gotten ahead of us
In forming a friendship with the Jews
To strengthen himself.
I also will write to them words of encouragement.
I will promise them honor and gifts,
So that I may have their help.’”
King Demetrius I heard what King Alexander had done to Jonathan. He was upset. How did King Alexander get ahead of him with his friendship with the Jews? He was going to offer Jonathan more words of encouragement. He was going to promise honors and gifts so that Jonathan would be with him.