This article reflects upon the theme of holy war in the Maccabean literature by examining 2 Maccabees and 4 Maccabees. It wants to demonstrate that the martyr theology ultimately has its genesis in the book of Daniel. The real battle is accordingly not against earthly forces but the persecuted and suffering righteous who participate with the heavenly forces of God against the real enemy, i.e., Satan and his evil forces. Ultimately the victory belongs to God exercising divine vengeance.