Saint Antonius Maccabee was one of the Seven Holy Maccabean Brothers who gave his life during the persecution of the Jewish people under King Antiochus IV Epiphanes. Together with his brothers and their mother, Solomonia, Antonius refused to abandon the Law of God despite intense pressure, threats, and torture.
When ordered to violate the commandments by eating unlawful food and renouncing the faith of Israel, Antonius remained steadfast. He chose suffering and death rather than betray God, trusting that the Lord would reward those who remained faithful. Alongside his brothers, he became a witness to courage, obedience, and hope in God’s promises.
The account of the Maccabean martyrs is one of the clearest Old Testament testimonies to faithfulness in the face of persecution. Their heroic endurance and confidence in God’s justice inspired generations of believers and foreshadowed the witness of Christian martyrs who would later die for the faith.
2 Maccabees 7:1–42
Seven brothers and their mother are tortured and martyred for refusing to violate God’s Law.
2 Maccabees 7:9
One of the brothers proclaims hope in resurrection and eternal life after death.
2 Maccabees 6:18–31
The martyrdom of Eleazar precedes and inspires the witness of the Maccabean brothers.
Patron of:
Persecuted Believers, Fidelity to God’s Law, Courage, Martyrs
Feast Day:
August 1 (Holy Maccabean Martyrs)
Illustration by: Colton Rompala