Topical Encyclopedia Bernice, also known as Berenice, is a prominent figure in the New Testament, particularly in the Acts of the Apostles. She was the daughter of Herod Agrippa I, the king of Judea, and the sister of Herod Agrippa II. Her life and actions are intertwined with the political and social dynamics of the Herodian dynasty and the Roman Empire during the first century A.D.Family Background and Early Life Bernice was born into the Herodian dynasty, a family known for its complex and often tumultuous relationships with the Roman authorities and the Jewish people. Her father, Herod Agrippa I, was a grandson of Herod the Great and ruled as king of Judea from A.D. 41 to 44. Her mother was Cypros, a noblewoman of Nabatean descent. Bernice had several siblings, including her brother Herod Agrippa II, with whom she shared a particularly close relationship. Marriages and Political Alliances Bernice's life was marked by a series of marriages and political alliances, which were common among royal families of the time to secure power and influence. Her first marriage was to Marcus Julius Alexander, a wealthy and influential Jew of Alexandria, but he died shortly after their union. She then married her uncle, Herod of Chalcis, with whom she had two sons. After his death, Bernice returned to live with her brother Agrippa II, which led to rumors of an inappropriate relationship between them, although these claims are not substantiated by historical evidence. Role in the New Testament Bernice is most notably mentioned in the New Testament in the context of the Apostle Paul's trials. In Acts 25:13, she appears alongside her brother Agrippa II when they visit Festus, the Roman governor of Judea. The purpose of their visit was to pay their respects to the new governor, but it also provided an opportunity for Festus to seek Agrippa's counsel regarding Paul's case. Acts 25:23 describes the scene: "So on the next day Agrippa and Bernice came with great pomp and entered the audience hall along with the commanders and leading men of the city. When Festus gave the order, Paul was brought in." During Paul's defense before Agrippa and Bernice, recorded in Acts 26, Paul recounts his conversion experience and his mission to the Gentiles. Agrippa famously responds to Paul's persuasive speech by saying, "In such a short time, are you persuading me to become a Christian?" (Acts 26:28). Bernice's reaction is not recorded, but her presence at this significant event highlights her involvement in the political and religious affairs of the time. Later Life and Historical Accounts After the events recorded in Acts, Bernice's life continued to be intertwined with the political landscape of the Roman Empire. She was known to have had a relationship with the Roman general Titus, who later became Emperor. This relationship was controversial due to her Jewish heritage and the political tensions of the time. Despite their close association, Titus ultimately did not marry Bernice, reportedly due to pressure from Roman society. Historical accounts, such as those by the Jewish historian Josephus, provide additional insights into Bernice's life and character. Josephus portrays her as a woman of considerable influence and ambition, navigating the complexities of her era with skill and determination. Legacy Bernice's legacy is one of intrigue and complexity. As a member of the Herodian dynasty, she played a role in the political and religious dynamics of the first century. Her interactions with key figures of the New Testament, including the Apostle Paul, place her within the broader narrative of early Christianity and its spread throughout the Roman world. Her life reflects the challenges and opportunities faced by women of her status in a male-dominated society, and her account continues to be a subject of interest for biblical scholars and historians alike. Nave's Topical Index Acts 2:5,13,23And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. Nave's Topical Index Acts 26:30 Greek 959. Bernike -- Berenice, Bernice, daughter of Herod Agrippa I ... Bernike Phonetic Spelling: (ber-nee'-kay) Short Definition: Bernice Definition: Bernice, daughter of Agrippa I and Kypros, and sister of M. Julius Agrippa II. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/959.htm - 6k Library How Claudius Restored to Agrippa his Grandfathers Kingdoms and ... Concerning the Government of Claudius, and the Reign of Agrippa. ... Herod the Tetrarch Makes War with Aretas, the King of Arabia, and ... Felix is Made Procurator of Judea; as Also Concerning Agrippa ... Of the Navigation of King Agrippa to Rome, to Tiberius Caesar; and ... How Antipater is Hated of all Men; and How the King Espouses the ... Concerning Theudas and the Sons of Judas the Galilean; as Also ... The Apostle of the Gentiles. The Jews Make all Ready for the War; and Simon, the Son of Gioras ... The Church History of Eusebius. Index of Subjects. Resources Who was Herod Agrippa II? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Philo of Alexandria? | GotQuestions.org Who are the various Herods mentioned in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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