Topical Encyclopedia Herod Antipas, the tetrarch of Galilee and Perea, is a figure of notable interest in the New Testament, particularly for his interactions and curiosity regarding Jesus of Nazareth. Herod Antipas, a son of Herod the Great, ruled during the time of Jesus' ministry and played a significant role in the events leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus.Herod's curiosity about Jesus is first mentioned in the Gospel of Luke. After hearing reports of Jesus' miraculous works and teachings, Herod expressed a desire to see Him. This curiosity was likely fueled by a mix of intrigue and superstition, as Herod was perplexed by the rumors that Jesus might be John the Baptist risen from the dead. Herod had previously ordered the beheading of John the Baptist, an act that weighed heavily on his conscience. Luke 9:9 states, "But Herod said, 'I beheaded John. Who, then, is this I hear such things about?' And he kept trying to see Him." Herod's interest in Jesus is further highlighted during the trial of Jesus. When Jesus was brought before Pontius Pilate, Pilate, learning that Jesus was a Galilean, sent Him to Herod, who was in Jerusalem at the time. Herod was pleased to finally see Jesus, hoping to witness a miracle. However, Jesus remained silent and did not perform any signs, leading to Herod's mockery and eventual return of Jesus to Pilate. Luke 23:8-11 recounts this encounter: "When Herod saw Jesus, he was greatly pleased, because for a long time he had wanted to see Him, since he had heard about Him and was hoping to see Him perform a sign. He questioned Him at great length, but Jesus gave no answer. Meanwhile, the chief priests and scribes stood there, vehemently accusing Him. And Herod and his soldiers ridiculed and mocked Him. Dressing Him in a fine robe, they sent Him back to Pilate." Herod's curiosity about Jesus reflects a superficial interest, driven by a desire for entertainment and spectacle rather than genuine faith or repentance. His failure to recognize Jesus' true identity and mission underscores a tragic spiritual blindness. Herod's encounter with Jesus serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of a hardened heart and the refusal to seek truth earnestly. In summary, Herod Antipas' curiosity to see Jesus is a significant narrative in the Gospels, illustrating the contrast between worldly power and the humble, yet profound, mission of Jesus Christ. Herod's interactions with Jesus highlight the themes of curiosity, misunderstanding, and the ultimate rejection of the Messiah by those in positions of earthly authority. Nave's Topical Index Luke 9:9And Herod said, John have I beheaded: but who is this, of whom I hear such things? And he desired to see him. Nave's Topical Index Luke 23:8 Library Herod Antipas Supposes Jesus to be John. Herod Jesus Sent to Herod. Persecutions of Herod Antipas. (Luke, xiii. , 31. ) Jesus and Herod The Nobleman's Son. Reasons for the Journey. About the Time of Christ, in Accordance with Prophecy, the Rulers ... Christ's Discourses in Per??a - Close of the Per??an Ministry The Baptist's Inquiry and Jesus' Discourse Suggested Thereby. Resources What is the Anglican Church, and what do Anglicans believe? | GotQuestions.orgWhy do we celebrate Easter? | GotQuestions.org What does Numbers 32:23 mean when it says, “Be sure your sin will find you out”? | GotQuestions.org Curious: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Curiosity of Abraham, to Know Whether God Would Destroy the Righteous People Who Lived in Sodom Curiosity of Angels, to Look Into the Mysteries of Salvation Curiosity of Daniel, to Know a Vision Curiosity of Herod (Antipas), to See Jesus Curiosity of Jacob, to Know the Name of the Angel Curiosity of Manoah, to Know the Name of an Angel Curiosity of the Athenians, to Hear some New Thing Curiosity of the Babylonians, to See Hezekiah's Treasures Curiosity of the Disciples, to Know Whether Jesus Would Restore the Kingdom of the Jews Curiosity of the People of Beth-Shemish, to Look Inside the Ark of the Covenant Curiosity: A Disciple, to Know If Few Would be Saved Curiosity: General Scriptures Concerning Curiosity: To Know What John Would be Appointed to Do Curiosity: To Know What Was Being Done With Jesus Curiosity: To See Lazarus, After he Was Raised from the Dead Curiosity: To Witness the offering in the Holy of Holies Related Terms |