King Demetrius to Simon, the high priest and friend of kings, and to the elders and nation of the Jews, greeting: This is the first reference to Simon as high priest. King Alexander had formally given this position to Jonathan (1Macc 10.20), and the people had acclaimed Simon as their leader in verse 8. In verse 42 the people refer to him as their High Priest. In 1Macc 14.38 it is said that Demetrius “confirmed” Simon in this office. Perhaps this is that occasion, although it is before the reference in verse 42. Or perhaps the Jewish people later take the liberty of interpreting this reference as an appointment. For friend of kings as a title, see the comments on 1Macc 2.18. The title is a problem here, since Simon had not been given the title yet by any king. Demetrius awarded him the title later (see 1Macc 14.39). Either the author is anticipating the awarding of the title or the term is being used in a literal sense, honoring Simon as one who was in a position to deal with kings on a familiar basis. Good News Bible seems to take it in the latter sense by saying “friend of kings,” which does not use capitalization, as is the case elsewhere (for instance, 1Macc 2.18; 14.39). For elders see the comments on 1Macc 7.33. Greeting may be placed near the beginning of the verse by saying “King Demetrius sends greetings to…” (Contemporary English Version).

Quoted with permission from Bullard, Roger A. and Hatton, Howard A. A Handbook on 1-2 Maccabees. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2011. For this and other handbooks for translators see here.