Topical Bible: Herod: Tetrarch of Galilee (Herod Antipas): Incest of

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Herod Antipas, known as the Tetrarch of Galilee, is a significant figure in the New Testament, particularly in the Gospels. He was a son of Herod the Great and ruled over Galilee and Perea during the time of Jesus' ministry. Herod Antipas is perhaps most infamously known for his involvement in the execution of John the Baptist, which was intricately linked to his unlawful marriage to Herodias.

Background and Family Relations

Herod Antipas was married to Herodias, who was previously the wife of his half-brother, Herod Philip. This marriage was considered incestuous and unlawful according to Jewish law, as it violated the Levitical prohibitions against marrying a brother's wife while the brother was still alive (Leviticus 18:16; 20:21). Herodias was also the daughter of Aristobulus, another half-brother of Herod Antipas, making her both his niece and sister-in-law.

John the Baptist's Condemnation

John the Baptist, a prominent prophetic figure and forerunner of Jesus, openly condemned Herod Antipas for this marriage. In the Gospel of Matthew, it is recorded: "For John had been telling him, 'It is not lawful for you to have her'" (Matthew 14:4). John's bold denunciation of Herod's actions was rooted in his commitment to uphold the moral and legal standards of the Jewish faith.

Herodias' Grudge and John's Imprisonment

Herodias harbored a deep grudge against John for his outspoken criticism and sought to silence him. Herod Antipas, though troubled by John's words, initially protected him due to his recognition of John as a righteous and holy man. However, Herodias' persistence eventually led to John's imprisonment (Mark 6:17-20).

The Execution of John the Baptist

The culmination of this familial and moral conflict occurred during Herod's birthday celebration. Herodias' daughter, Salome, performed a dance that pleased Herod and his guests. In a moment of rashness, Herod promised to grant her any request. Coached by her mother, Salome asked for the head of John the Baptist on a platter. Though distressed, Herod complied due to his oath and the presence of his guests, leading to John's beheading (Matthew 14:6-11; Mark 6:21-28).

Theological and Moral Implications

The account of Herod Antipas and his incestuous marriage to Herodias serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of moral compromise and the dangers of unchecked power and influence. It highlights the courage required to stand for truth, as exemplified by John the Baptist, and the tragic outcomes that can result from ignoring divine law.

Herod Antipas' actions and the subsequent events underscore the biblical principle that leaders are held to high moral standards and that deviation from these standards can lead to personal and communal downfall. The narrative also foreshadows the rejection and suffering that Jesus Himself would face, as He too would be brought before Herod Antipas during His Passion (Luke 23:7-12).

In summary, the story of Herod Antipas and his incestuous relationship with Herodias is a complex interplay of power, morality, and divine justice, offering timeless lessons on the importance of adhering to God's commandments and the courage to speak truth to power.

Nave's Topical Index

Matthew 14:3,4
For Herod had laid hold on John, and bound him, and put him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife.
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Mark 6:17-19
For Herod himself had sent forth and laid hold on John, and bound him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife: for he had married her.
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Library

Book 18 Footnotes
... 6, 7, that "when Pilate heard of Galilee, he asked ... the Baptist justly reproved Herod
the tetrarch, and for ... Agrippa is very like that of Herod Antipas, his uncle ...
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