Topical Encyclopedia Antipater is a historical figure whose influence is primarily noted in the context of the Herodian dynasty and the political landscape of Judea during the late Second Temple period. Although not directly mentioned in the Bible, Antipater's actions and legacy significantly impacted the socio-political environment of the New Testament era.Background and Early Life Antipater was an Idumean by descent, a region south of Judea, which had been forcibly converted to Judaism by the Hasmonean ruler John Hyrcanus I. This conversion played a crucial role in Antipater's later political maneuvers, as it allowed him to integrate into Jewish society and politics. His father, Antipas, was a prominent figure in Idumea, and Antipater inherited his father's political acumen and ambition. Rise to Power Antipater's rise to power began through his support of Hyrcanus II, the Hasmonean high priest, in his struggle against his brother Aristobulus II for control of the Judean throne. Antipater's strategic alliance with Hyrcanus II and his subsequent collaboration with the Roman general Pompey in 63 BC were pivotal. This alliance with Rome marked the beginning of Roman influence over Judea, a significant factor in the New Testament narrative. Role in the Herodian Dynasty Antipater's most notable contribution to biblical history is his role as the father of Herod the Great. Through his political maneuvering, Antipater secured a position of power for his family, which laid the groundwork for Herod's eventual rise to kingship. Herod the Great, known for his extensive building projects and the expansion of the Second Temple, is a prominent figure in the New Testament, particularly in the account of Jesus' birth (Matthew 2:1-18). Antipater's influence extended beyond his lifetime, as his descendants continued to play significant roles in the political and religious affairs of Judea. His ability to navigate the complex political landscape of the time, balancing relationships with the Roman authorities and local Jewish leaders, set the stage for the Herodian dynasty's dominance. Death and Legacy Antipater's life came to a violent end in 43 BC when he was assassinated, a testament to the turbulent and often dangerous nature of Judean politics under Roman rule. Despite his death, Antipater's legacy endured through his son Herod and the subsequent Herodian rulers, who are frequently mentioned in the New Testament. While Antipater himself is not a biblical figure, his actions and the dynasty he established had a profound impact on the historical and religious context of the New Testament. His life and legacy provide valuable insight into the political dynamics that shaped the world in which Jesus and the early Christian church emerged. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ANTIPATERan-tip'-a-ter (Antipatros): One of two envoys sent by the senate of the Jews to the Romans and Spartans (1 Maccabees 12:16; 14:22). Library How Antipater was Hated by all the Nation [Of the Jews] For How Antipater Committed the Care of Galilee to Herod, and that of ... How Antipater is Hated of all Men; and How the King Espouses the ... The Malice of Antipater and Doris. Alexander is Very Uneasy on ... Antipater is Convicted by Bathyllus; but He Still Returns from ... Antipater's Navigation from Rome to his Father; and How He was ... Antipater Becomes Intolerable. He is Sent to Rome, and Carries ... Antipater is Accused Before Varus, and is Convicted of Laying a ... How During Antipater's Abode at Rome, Herod Brought Alexander and ... Letter clxxxvi. To Antipater, the Governor. Thesaurus Antipater...ANTIPATER. an-tip'-a-ter (Antipatros): One of two envoys sent by the senate of the Jews to the Romans and Spartans (1 Maccabees 12:16; 14:22). ... /a/antipater.htm - 6k Antipatris (1 Occurrence) Thessalonica (8 Occurrences) Herod (45 Occurrences) Pharisees (86 Occurrences) Asmoneans Numenius Jason (5 Occurrences) Great (10383 Occurrences) Tetrarch (5 Occurrences) Resources Who are the various Herods mentioned in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat were the 400 years of silence? | GotQuestions.org Who was Herod Antipas? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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