- Halacha
- General Questions
622
Question
Does orthodox Jewish consider the Book of the Macabees false? I know it is not considered a holy book, but is it’s text considered as an accurate historical account in your opinion?
Answer
The book of the Macabees is not false, rather it's considered a 'Sefer Chitzoni' (an 'external book').
Sfarim Chitzonim were written throughout early jewish history, usually discribing historical events that happend at that time period.
The holy books of the Tanach were written through prophecy or Ruach Hakodesh so we know all facts there are complete and accurate.
Sfarim Chitzonim aren't always objective, some of them are biased and selective. They are forbidden since somtimes they are influenced by religions and ideas that don't agree with the jewish spirit, and they can be a bad influence on the reader.
Rabbi Ro'i Margalit

Removing facial hair
Rabbi David Sperling | Tammuz 15, 5783

The Meaning of the Abbreviation "Shlita"
Various Rabbis | 25 Tammuz 5765

Hebrew last name for convert
Rabbi Ari Shvat | Elul 3, 5773

Afraid of death
Rabbi David Sperling | Nisan 27, 5783

Carrying a baby on Shabbat with no Eruv
Rabbi David Sperling | Sivan 14, 5779

The Theory of Jewish Inherent Superiority
Rabbi Yoel Lieberman | Adar I 25, 5771

Shaving after Lag Ba’omer
Various Rabbis | Iyyar 23, 5768

No-wedding days
Rabbi David Sperling | Sivan 20, 5772

Gentile inferiority due to genetics.
Rabbi Yoel Lieberman | Adar 6, 5785

coffee creamer
Rabbi Ari Shvat | Adar 25, 5785

Blessing for non jew
Rabbi Yoel Lieberman | Nisan 23, 5785
