His grades were very high in school, which added to
his social problems.
On the day of his man-hood ritual (bah-Vitzvah) he
was chosen to light the Sabbath candles, but this
year his birthday was on the Sabbath & Chanukah.
As the ceremony was near it's end a freak accident
occurred, the candles of the Menorah (Chanukah candle-holder)went into a large blaze, streaking up to the ceiling. The entire congregation was amazed.
Then a voice came from the fire; " Jacob, you have found favor in My sight. I the L-rd thy G-d, King of Isreal, proclaim you to be chosen for a special purpose. From whom were you descended?"
Jacob's father looked in awe;" It's time to tell him. Jacob you are my only son, but the L-rd has spoken. We can trace our origins to the original Judah Maccabe! I have been instructed to not tell you this until now."
The angel of the L-rd spoke;" There is a time of great
calamity coming soon, you shall be called to take on the
power of the Maccabe." Thus he took his rightful last name; Judah and was imbued by G-d to be able to summon the power of the original Maccabe.