Topical Encyclopedia Herodias is a prominent figure in the New Testament, known for her role in the events leading to the execution of John the Baptist. She was the daughter of Aristobulus IV and Berenice, making her a granddaughter of Herod the Great. Herodias' life and actions are intricately tied to the Herodian dynasty's complex and often tumultuous history.Family and Marriages Herodias was initially married to Herod II, also known as Herod Philip I, her half-uncle. This marriage produced a daughter, Salome, who would later play a crucial role in the narrative of John the Baptist's death. Herodias' marriage to Herod II was politically significant, as it linked her to the Herodian line, but it was not without controversy. Herodias later divorced Herod II to marry Herod Antipas, another of her uncles, who was the tetrarch of Galilee and Perea. This union was considered unlawful by Jewish standards, as it violated Levitical law regarding marriage to a brother's wife (Leviticus 18:16; 20:21). Herodias' marriage to Herod Antipas is a central element in the Gospel accounts, as it drew the ire of John the Baptist. Conflict with John the Baptist John the Baptist openly criticized Herodias' marriage to Herod Antipas, denouncing it as adulterous and unlawful. In the Gospel of Mark, it is recorded: "For John had been telling Herod, 'It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife'" (Mark 6:18). Herodias harbored a grudge against John for his condemnation and sought to have him killed, but Herod Antipas, who feared John and regarded him as a righteous and holy man, initially protected him. The Death of John the Baptist The opportunity for Herodias to exact her revenge came during Herod Antipas' birthday celebration. Her daughter, Salome, performed a dance that pleased Herod and his guests. In response, Herod promised with an oath to give her whatever she asked, up to half his kingdom. Prompted by her mother, Salome requested the head of John the Baptist on a platter. Though distressed, Herod complied due to his oaths and the presence of his guests, leading to John's execution (Mark 6:21-28). Legacy and Historical Context Herodias' actions and the subsequent martyrdom of John the Baptist are significant in the New Testament narrative, illustrating the moral and spiritual conflicts of the time. Herodias is often viewed as a symbol of manipulation and vindictiveness, contrasting with the prophetic integrity of John the Baptist. Her account is a testament to the complex interplay of power, politics, and personal vendettas within the Herodian dynasty. Herodias' life and actions are also reflective of the broader historical and cultural tensions between the Herodian rulers and the Jewish populace, as well as the influence of Roman customs and governance in Judea. Herodias' ambition and the resulting tragedy underscore the moral and ethical challenges faced by those in positions of power during this period. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 14:3,6For Herod had laid hold on John, and bound him, and put him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife. Nave's Topical Index Mark 6:17,19,22 Luke 3:19 Greek 2266. Herodias -- Herodias, granddaughter of Herod the Great ... Herodias Phonetic Spelling: (hay-ro-dee-as') Short Definition: Herodias Definition: Herodias (died after AD 40), daughter of Aristobulus and granddaughter of ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2266.htm - 6k Library Herod the Tetrarch Makes War with Aretas, the King of Arabia, and ... Testimonies in Regard to John the Baptist and Christ. Herod Antipas Supposes Jesus to be John. How Antipater is Hated of all Men; and How the King Espouses the ... The Story of the Baptist, from his Last Testimony to Jesus to his ... Index i. Of Subjects Of the Navigation of King Agrippa to Rome, to Tiberius Caesar; and ... The Church History of Eusebius. Index of Subjects. Resources Who was Salome in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgAre there beheadings recorded in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was John the Baptist in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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