He extended the borders of his nation: This line refers to the capture of Joppa, Bethzur, and Gezer by Simon. In 1Macc 11.28-37 we read of additions to Judea’s territory that Jonathan won by diplomatic negotiations, but we are not told of such an accomplishment on Simon’s part. This line may be rendered “He made the territory of Judea larger.”

And gained full control of the country: Jews in Judea were now masters of their own affairs; they did not have to answer to any Gentile authority. So we may say “and as High Priest ruled the entire country.”

An alternative model for this verse is:

• He made the territory of Judea larger, and as High Priest ruled the entire country.

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.