Battle of Beth Horon (166 BC)

This article is about the battle between Hasmoneans and the Seleucid Empire. For the battle between Judean rebels and the Syrian Legion of the Roman Empire, see Battle of Beth Horon (66).
Battle of Beth Horon
Part of Maccabean Revolt

Mina of Antiochus IV.
Date166 BC or 165 BC
Location
Beth-horon, ascent of Beit Horon
31°52′38″N 35°7′7″E / 31.87722°N 35.11861°E / 31.87722; 35.11861
Result Rebel victory
Belligerents
Judean rebels Seleucid army
Commanders and leaders
Judas Maccabeus Seron
Strength
"A small company" "A multitude"
Casualties and losses
Unknown 800

The Battle of Beth Horon or Battle with Seron was fought at some point between Spring 166 BC to Spring 165 BC during the Maccabean Revolt between Judean rebels led by Judas Maccabeus (Judah Maccabee) and an army of the Seleucid Empire under the command of Seron, a commander of the Syrian army. Beth-Horon, or Bethoron, was a strategic mountain pass leading from the coastal plain to the Judean hill country. Utilizing guerrilla warfare tactics, the Maccabee rebels ambushed the passing Seleucid force from the pass, pursuing the surprised and fleeing remnants into the plain.

The Jewish army had earlier won a battle at the ascent of Lebonah against the Seleucid General Apollonius. Another force was soon sent against the Maccabees, which led to the Battle of Emmaus.