The death of Judah Maccabee at Elasa (161) put a definite end to that stage of the Judean revolt which strove predominantly to restore religious rights and defend coreligionists. The nature of the struggle initiated by the Hasmoneans won them popularity and broad support. It still proved insufficient in the face of a military defeat that left the vanquished and rebel sympathizers facing a difficult trial of their faithfulness to its ideals and faith in a continued struggle. Bacchides' victory meant an increased influence over Judean affairs of the Hellenists, Judah's ideological and political adversaries (cf. 1 Macc 9:25; Jos. AJ 13.2). Now in control of the situation, supported by Bacchides, they proceeded to crack down on the defeated opponents (1 Macc 9:26; Jos. AJ 13.4–5). The repressive measures they took were a form of revenge for the wrongs they had suffered and for their lost property, and were meant to remove as many of Judah's associates as possible. A thorough political purge well served the interests of the group now in control over Judea, as it did the Syrian rulers. Elimination of rebel leadership could prevent possible future recurrence of insurgency. As an unexpected windfall, famine that struck Judea at the time helped the Hellenists strengthen their position. Supplied by Syrian authorities, the Hellenists were able to provide grain to all those who sided with them, which, hardly surprisingly, increased their popularity.