Emmaus (Imwas - Latrun): Canada Park The Battle of Emmaus took place in 166 BC between the Hasmonean forces of Judea, led by Judah Maccabeus, and the third expedition of Greek forces given by Antiochus IV Epiphanes to Lysias. Word reached Maccabeus that Gorgias was leading 5,000 troops on a march against his camp and was planning to surprise the Jewish rebels in a night-time attack, Judas abandoned his camp and led his forces to Emmaus, to attack the Hellenic base camp that remained there. Gorgias found the camp at Mizpah empty and deserted. It was considered one of Judah Maccabeus' most important victories in the war for Judean independence.