Topical Bible: Women: Herodias, in Her Incestuous Marriage With Herod Antipas

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Topical Encyclopedia

Herodias is a prominent figure in the New Testament, known for her controversial and morally complex role in the events surrounding the life and ministry of John the Baptist. Her account is primarily recounted in the Gospels of Matthew and Mark, where her actions and relationships are depicted as both politically motivated and morally questionable.

Background and Family Connections

Herodias was a member of the Herodian dynasty, a ruling family in Judea during the time of Jesus. She was the daughter of Aristobulus IV and Berenice, making her a granddaughter of Herod the Great. Herodias was initially married to Herod II (also known as Herod Philip I), her half-uncle, with whom she had a daughter named Salome. This marriage was in itself a union within the family, a common practice among royal families to preserve power and influence.

Marriage to Herod Antipas

Herodias's marriage to Herod Antipas, another of her uncles, is the focal point of her biblical narrative. Herod Antipas was the tetrarch of Galilee and Perea, a position of considerable authority under Roman rule. Herodias left her first husband, Herod II, to marry Herod Antipas, an act that was both politically advantageous and scandalous due to its incestuous nature. This marriage was in direct violation of Jewish law, which prohibited such unions. Leviticus 18:16 states, "You must not have sexual relations with your brother’s wife; that would shame your brother."

Conflict with John the Baptist

The marriage of Herodias and Herod Antipas drew the ire of John the Baptist, a prophet known for his boldness in calling out sin and urging repentance. John publicly condemned their union, as recorded in Mark 6:18 : "For John had been telling Herod, 'It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.'" Herodias harbored a deep grudge against John for his denunciation, and she sought to silence him permanently.

The Death of John the Baptist

Herodias's opportunity for revenge came during a banquet held by Herod Antipas. Her daughter, Salome, performed a dance that pleased Herod and his guests, leading Herod to promise her anything she desired, up to half his kingdom. Prompted by her mother, Salome requested the head of John the Baptist on a platter. Though Herod was distressed by the request, he reluctantly complied due to his oath and the presence of his guests. This event is detailed in Mark 6:21-28 , illustrating the tragic end of John the Baptist and the extent of Herodias's influence and vindictiveness.

Legacy and Theological Implications

Herodias's actions and her marriage to Herod Antipas serve as a cautionary tale within the biblical narrative. Her willingness to defy divine law for personal and political gain, coupled with her role in the execution of John the Baptist, highlights the moral and spiritual dangers of unchecked ambition and vengeance. Herodias's account is a stark reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of adhering to God's commandments, as well as the prophetic courage exemplified by John the Baptist in standing for truth and righteousness.

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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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Luke 3:19
But Herod the tetrarch, being reproved by him for Herodias his brother Philip's wife, and for all the evils which Herod had done,
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