The Herodians were a political group mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in the Gospels of Matthew and Mark. They are often depicted as being aligned with the Herodian dynasty, which ruled parts of Judea and Galilee under the auspices of the Roman Empire. The Herodians are notable for their interactions with Jesus, particularly in their attempts to entrap Him.

Biblical References

The Herodians are mentioned in three key passages in the New Testament:

1. Matthew 22:16: "They sent their disciples to Him along with the Herodians. 'Teacher,' they said, 'we know that You are honest and that You teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. You seek favor from no one, because You pay no attention to external appearance.'"

2. Mark 3:6: "At this, the Pharisees went out and began plotting with the Herodians how they might kill Jesus."

3. Mark 12:13: "Later, they sent some of the Pharisees and Herodians to catch Jesus in His words."

Historical Context

The Herodians were likely supporters of Herod Antipas, the tetrarch of Galilee and Perea, and a member of the Herodian dynasty. This dynasty was known for its complex relationship with the Roman Empire, often acting as client kings who maintained a semblance of Jewish autonomy while ultimately serving Roman interests. The Herodians, therefore, would have been politically motivated, seeking to maintain the status quo under Roman rule.

Relationship with Other Groups

The Herodians are often mentioned in conjunction with the Pharisees, a religious group known for their strict adherence to Jewish law. Despite their differing motivations—political for the Herodians and religious for the Pharisees—both groups found common cause in their opposition to Jesus. This alliance is particularly evident in their joint efforts to challenge Jesus' authority and teachings.

Theological Significance

The Herodians' interactions with Jesus highlight the tension between political power and spiritual authority. Their attempts to trap Jesus with questions about paying taxes to Caesar (Matthew 22:17-21) underscore the broader conflict between earthly and divine kingdoms. Jesus' response, "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's" (Matthew 22:21), emphasizes the distinction between secular obligations and spiritual devotion.

Role in the Plot Against Jesus

The Herodians' involvement in the plot to kill Jesus, as noted in Mark 3:6, illustrates the extent of their opposition to His ministry. Their willingness to conspire with the Pharisees, despite potential ideological differences, underscores the threat Jesus posed to both the religious and political establishments of the time.

Conclusion

While the Herodians are not as frequently mentioned as other groups in the New Testament, their presence is significant in understanding the political dynamics of the period. Their interactions with Jesus serve as a reminder of the complex interplay between political power and religious authority in the context of first-century Judea.Hero'di-ans (3 Occurrences)

Matthew 22:16
and they send to him their disciples with the Herodians, saying, 'Teacher, we have known that thou art true, and the way of God in truth thou dost teach, and thou art not caring for any one, for thou dost not look to the face of men;
(See RSV)

Mark 3:6
and the Pharisees having gone forth, immediately, with the Herodians, were taking counsel against him how they might destroy him.
(See RSV)

Mark 12:13
and they send unto him certain of the Pharisees and of the Herodians, that they may ensnare him in discourse,
(See RSV)

Hero'di-ans (3 Occurrences)
Hero'di-ans. Herodians, Hero'di-ans. Herodias . Multi-Version Concordance
Hero'di-ans (3 Occurrences). Matthew 22:16 and they send ...
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Herodias (7 Occurrences)

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Herodians (3 Occurrences)

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