Mattathias was a Jewish priest from the Hasmonean family, known for his role in the Maccabean Revolt against the Seleucid Empire in the 2nd century BCE. He is celebrated for refusing to worship Greek idols and for encouraging his sons to fight for their religious freedom. His actions sparked a rebellion that aimed to restore Jewish practices and independence. After Mattathias's death, his son Judah Maccabee led the revolt, which ultimately resulted in the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. This event is commemorated by the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah, symbolizing the struggle for religious freedom and cultural identity.