Some people struggle with the notion that the word “purgatory” is not used in the Bible and question the theological wisdom of praying for the dead. These concepts can be supported by Biblical writings though the corresponding English words or their equivalents are not used in the translations of the original works. “And, calling an assembly, he sent twelve thousand drachmas of silver to Jerusalem, to be offered for a sacrifice for the sins of the dead, thinking well and religiously about the resurrection, (for if he had not hoped that those who had fallen would be resurrected, it would have seemed superfluous and vain to pray for the dead,) and because he considered that those who had fallen asleep with piety had great grace stored up for them. Therefore, it is a holy and beneficial thought to pray on behalf of those who have passed away, so that they may be released from sins.” 2 Maccabees 12:43-46.
The Second Book of Maccabees was written by a Greek around 100 BC, but is not included in the Old Testament. It describes the victory of the Maccabees with only 10,000 rebels over the Seleucid Empire who had an army of more than 65,000.
Some people struggle with the notion that the word “purgatory” is not used in the Bible and question the theological wisdom of praying for the dead. These concepts can be supported by Biblical writings though the corresponding English words or their equivalents are not used in the translations of the original works. “And, calling an assembly, he sent twelve thousand drachmas of silver to Jerusalem, to be offered for a sacrifice for the sins of the dead, thinking well and religiously about the resurrection, (for if he had not hoped that those who had fallen would be resurrected, it would have seemed superfluous and vain to pray for the dead,) and because he considered that those who had fallen asleep with piety had great grace stored up for them. Therefore, it is a holy and beneficial thought to pray on behalf of those who have passed away, so that they may be released from sins.” 2 Maccabees 12:43-46.
The Second Book of Maccabees was written by a Greek around 100 BC, but is not included in the Old Testament. It describes the victory of the Maccabees with only 10,000 rebels over the Seleucid Empire who had an army of more than 65,000.
