Simon Son of Onias

50 The leader of his brothers and the pride of his peoplea

was the high priest, Simon son of Onias,

who in his life repaired the house,

and in his time fortified the temple.

2 He laid the foundations for the high double walls,

the high retaining walls for the temple enclosure.

3 In his days a water cistern was dug,b

a reservoir like the sea in circumference.

4 He considered how to save his people from ruin,

and fortified the city against siege.