Bible Encyclopedias
Buckle

Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature

(πόρπη ), a clasp or brooch, in this instance of gold, sent by Alexander Balas to Jonathan Maccabaeus a present of honor, in conformity with customs of royal courtesy (1 Maccabees 10:89; 1 Maccabees 11:58; comp. 14:44; so Josephus, πόρπη, Ant. 13, 4, 4; 5, 4). A similar usage is referred to by Trebellius Pollio (in Claud.), and the use of such ornaments is illustrated by Pliny (33:3); comp. Schleusner, Lex. s.v.; Smith, Dict. of Class. Ant. s.v. Fibula.