Topical Encyclopedia The Massacre of the Innocents is a tragic event recorded in the Gospel of Matthew, specifically in Matthew 2:16-18. This event is a significant part of the narrative surrounding the early life of Jesus Christ and is deeply rooted in the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy.Biblical Account: According to the Gospel of Matthew, after the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem seeking the "King of the Jews" (Matthew 2:2). Their inquiry troubled King Herod, who saw the newborn King as a threat to his throne. Herod deceitfully instructed the wise men to report back to him once they found the child, under the pretense of wanting to worship Him (Matthew 2:8). However, after being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, the wise men departed for their country by another route (Matthew 2:12). Realizing that he had been outwitted by the wise men, Herod became furious and ordered the massacre of all male children in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under. This age range was determined based on the time he had learned from the wise men (Matthew 2:16). Prophetic Fulfillment: The Massacre of the Innocents is seen as a fulfillment of prophecy, as Matthew cites the words of the prophet Jeremiah: "A voice is heard in Ramah, weeping and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing consolation, because they are no more" (Matthew 2:18; cf. Jeremiah 31:15). This prophecy, originally referring to the mourning of Israel's exile, is applied by Matthew to the sorrow experienced by the mothers of Bethlehem. Historical and Theological Context: Herod the Great, known for his paranoia and tyrannical rule, was a client king of Judea under Roman authority. His fear of losing power led to numerous acts of brutality, including the execution of several of his own family members. The massacre in Bethlehem, while not recorded in other historical sources, is consistent with Herod's character and reign. Theologically, the Massacre of the Innocents underscores the cosmic conflict between the forces of evil and the divine plan of salvation through Jesus Christ. Herod's attempt to destroy the Messiah highlights the opposition that Jesus would face throughout His life and ministry. This event also foreshadows the suffering and sacrifice that would ultimately lead to the redemption of humanity. Cultural and Liturgical Observance: In Christian tradition, the Massacre of the Innocents is commemorated on December 28th, known as the Feast of the Holy Innocents. This day serves as a somber reminder of the cost of Christ's coming into the world and the innocent lives lost in the wake of His birth. It calls believers to reflect on the sanctity of life and the ongoing struggle against injustice and oppression. The Massacre of the Innocents remains a poignant narrative within the Christian faith, illustrating the fulfillment of prophecy, the reality of evil, and the hope of salvation through Jesus Christ. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Massacre of the InnocentsMASSACRE OF THE INNOCENTS mas'-a-ker. Library The Massacre of the Innocents and the Flight into Egypt. Jesus Before Pilate. On the Feast of the Epiphany, iii. The Life of Jesus Christ in Its Historical Connexion Crucifixion of the Thieves. Pilate and his Wife. On the Feast of the Epiphany, I. Table of Contents Jesus in the Garden of Olives. Commencement of the Legends Concerning Jesus --His Own Idea of his ... Resources What is the Massacre of the Innocents? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did Jesus mention the tower of Siloam in Luke 13:4? | GotQuestions.org Who were the Galileans in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Massacre: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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