Bible Dictionary
MACRON
Ptolemy Macron was a governor under the Ptolemaic and Seleucid rulers. He first opposed the Jews but later showed them favor, fell into disfavor with Antiochus Eupator, and died by poisoning himself.
Definition
Ptolemy Macron was a political and military official who served under Ptolemaic and Seleucid rulers. He governed Cyprus under Ptolemy Philometor, deserted to Antiochus Epiphanes, and later governed Coele-Syria and Phoenicia. Initially hostile to the Jews, he later showed them favor, fell into disfavor under Antiochus Eupator, and ended his life by poison.
Biblical Usage
Macron appears in the books of the Maccabees in connection with the rulers and conflicts of the period, including the plans against Israel and his later change of policy toward the Jews.
Historical Background
He is also called Ptolemy son of Dorymenes. His political reversal caused him to be accused before Antiochus Eupator, and he was reportedly tormented by being repeatedly called a traitor.
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>ma'-kron (Makron>): Ptolemy Macron who had been appointed by Ptolemy Philmetor VI governor of Cyprus and deserted to Antiochus Epiphanes, king of Syria (2 Macc 10:12 ff). Under Antiochus he was governor of Coele-Syria and Phoenicia (2 Macc 8:8). In 1 Macc 3:38 and 2 Macc 4:45 he is called "Ptolemy the son of Dorymenes." At first he was a fierce and cruel enemy of the Jews and was one of those chosen by Lysias to destroy Israel and reduce Judas Maccabee (same place). Later he apparently relented toward the Jews (2 Macc 10:12), fell into disfavor with Antiochus Eupator, before whom he was accused by the king's friends, and was so galled by being constantly called traitor that he ended his life with poison (2 Macc 10:13).le in the lowest course of masonry, which may possibly communicate with the western cave. Into this the Jews of Hebron are accustomed to thrust many written prayers and vows to the patriarchs.</p><p>S. Angus</p>