In the Siege of Jerusalem, Roman forces had to breach three extremely sturdy walls, and after each one, fight through a built-up urban area. It was an exceptionally difficult and prolonged process, and the Roman general in command, Titus (who would later become Emperor), would go so far as to say that only the divine favor of YHWH, the Jewish God, allowed him to breach such mighty walls, even with all the might of Rome at his beck and call.
“You defended well, but it was your god who let me conquer you”
“look buddy, in just saying, either he hates you, or Jupiter whooped his ass, your choice”
It’s actually a very informed and surprisingly (relatively) humble take from a Roman. Romans often didn’t understand Judaism well, but Titus throughout his life demonstrates a greater-than-average understanding of the faith (probably at least in part because he was in love with a Jewish queen). Instead of JUST saying “LMAO REKT”, Titus is appealing to the long tradition of the Jewish people attributing their worst defeats as a punishment from YHWH.
