22. And it was the feast of Dedication. The Greek word ( ἐγκαίνια) which we have translated dedication, (298) properly signifies renovations; because the temple, which had been polluted, was again consecrated by the command of Judas Maccabaeus; and at that time it was enacted that the day of the new dedication or consecration should be celebrated every year as a festival, that the people might recall to remembrance the grace of God, which had put an end to the tyranny of Antiochus. Christ appeared in the temple at that time, according to custom, that his preaching might yield more abundant fruit amidst a large assembly of men.
(298) “ Le mot Grec pour lequel nous avons mis Dedicace.”