Final answer:
King Antiochus IV is also known as Epiphanes. He was a Seleucid monarch who attempted to Hellenize his territories, leading to significant conflicts. Option a) is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
King Antiochus IV, also known as Epiphanes, wielded power as a Hellenistic Greek monarch over the Seleucid Empire from 175 BC until his demise in 164 BC. The epithet 'Epiphanes,' signifying 'God Manifest' or 'The Illustrious One,' underscored his royal self-perception and the grandiosity of his reign. During his rule, Antiochus IV embarked on a concerted effort to implant Greek culture and religion within the domains under his sway, a campaign that extended to regions like Judea.
This ambitious endeavor precipitated profound cultural clashes and set the stage for the historic Maccabean Revolt. In his zeal to Hellenize the diverse territories, Antiochus IV faced vehement resistance, particularly in Judea, where the imposition of Greek customs collided with the deeply rooted traditions of the Jewish population. The resulting conflict and discontent erupted into the Maccabean Revolt, a seminal chapter in ancient history.
The Maccabean Revolt, spurred by the resistance against Antiochus IV's cultural assimilation, ultimately sought to preserve the distinct identity and religious practices of the Jewish people. This period of upheaval and resistance against Hellenization left an indelible mark on the historical landscape, emphasizing the enduring struggle for cultural autonomy and religious freedom.