Topical Encyclopedia Herod the Great, known for his architectural prowess and political acumen, was the Roman-appointed King of Judea from 37 to 4 BC. His reign is marked by significant building projects, political maneuvering, and a complex relationship with the Jewish people and the early Christian narrative.Background and Rise to Power Herod was born around 73 BC to Antipater, an Idumean, and Cypros, a Nabatean. His family converted to Judaism, and Herod was raised in the Jewish faith, though his lineage was not fully accepted by all Jews. Herod's father, Antipater, was a key political figure who supported Julius Caesar, which helped Herod gain favor with Rome. Herod's rise to power was facilitated by his political alliances and military prowess. In 40 BC, the Roman Senate declared him "King of the Jews," but it took three years of military campaigns to secure his throne against the Hasmonean Antigonus and other rivals. Herod's rule was solidified with the capture of Jerusalem in 37 BC. Reign and Achievements Herod's reign is noted for its extensive building projects, which were both a means of securing his legacy and appeasing his Roman patrons. Among his most famous constructions was the expansion of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, known as Herod's Temple, which became a central place of worship for the Jewish people. He also built the fortress at Masada, the port city of Caesarea Maritima, and the Herodium, a fortress and palace complex. Despite his contributions to infrastructure and the economy, Herod's reign was also characterized by political paranoia and brutality. He maintained his power through a network of spies and a series of strategic marriages, including his union with Mariamne, a Hasmonean princess. Herod's fear of losing his throne led to the execution of several family members, including his wife Mariamne and three of his sons. Herod in the New Testament Herod the Great is most famously known in the Christian tradition for his role in the narrative of Jesus' birth. The Gospel of Matthew recounts Herod's interaction with the Magi, who came seeking the "King of the Jews" (Matthew 2:2). Disturbed by the prophecy of a new king, Herod deceitfully instructed the Magi to report back to him, claiming he wished to worship the child. When the Magi did not return, Herod ordered the massacre of all male infants in Bethlehem aged two and under, an event known as the "Massacre of the Innocents" (Matthew 2:16). Death and Legacy Herod died in 4 BC, suffering from a painful and debilitating illness. His death led to the division of his kingdom among his sons, as decreed by Rome. Herod's legacy is a complex tapestry of architectural achievement, political intrigue, and tyrannical rule. His life and actions, particularly his role in the early life of Jesus, continue to be subjects of study and reflection within Christian scholarship. Herod the Great remains a pivotal figure in understanding the historical and cultural context of the New Testament, illustrating the intersection of Roman political power and Jewish religious life during a critical period in biblical history. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 2:1Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Nave's Topical Index Library About the Time of Christ, in Accordance with Prophecy, the Rulers ... Eastern Wise-Men, or Magi, visit Jesus, the New-Born King. Palestine Eighteen Centuries Ago And when the Second Year was Past, Magi came from the East to ... In Jerusalem when Herod Reigned The Story of Jesus, the Babe of Bethlehem The Magi came from the East to Jerusalem,... Following the Star. The Roman Power. The visit of the Wise Men. Resources Who was Salome in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Herodias in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Why was John the Baptist beheaded? | GotQuestions.org Herod: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Herod: King of Judah (Herod the Great) Herod: Son of Aristobulus (Herod Agrippa I) Herod: Tetrarch of Galilee (Herod Antipas) Herod: Tetrarch of Galilee (Herod Antipas): Beheads John the Baptist Herod: Tetrarch of Galilee (Herod Antipas): Desires to See Jesus Herod: Tetrarch of Galilee (Herod Antipas): Incest of Herod: Tetrarch of Galilee (Herod Antipas): Jesus Tried By Herod: Tetrarch of Galilee (Herod Antipas): Tyranny of Irony: Herod Agrippa Ii to Paul Sarcasm: Herod Agrippa Ii to Paul Related Terms |
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