Abstract: Using material from Josephus (Antiquities xiii–xiv; Jewish War i) and the Psalms of Solomon, examines the descendants of Simon Maccabee, known as the Hasmoneans, who formed a ruling dynasty in Jerusalem from 134 bce till the Roman conquest of Palestine in 63 bce. As with Jonathan and Simon Maccabee, the Hasmoneans appear to have been royal rather than primarily priestly rulers. This is indicated by the inclusion of a woman in the line of succession, and by the fact that the Psalms of Solomon castigate the Hasmoneans for usurping the throne of David. Hence, like the Maccabees, the Hasmoneans represent not the development of high priesthood into an office of civil power, but a return to a monarchic style of government.

Keywords: Hasmoneans, Josephus, Antiquities xiii, xiv, Josephus, Jewish War i, Psalms of Solomon,