Topical Encyclopedia Philip, known as the Tetrarch of Iturea and Trachonitis, was a ruler in the first century AD, mentioned in the New Testament. He was one of the sons of Herod the Great, the infamous king of Judea, and his wife Cleopatra of Jerusalem. Philip's rule is noted in the context of the political landscape during the time of Jesus Christ's early ministry.Biblical Reference: Philip is mentioned in the Gospel of Luke, which provides a historical context for the beginning of John the Baptist's ministry. Luke 3:1 states: "In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, Herod was tetrarch of Galilee, his brother Philip tetrarch of Iturea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias tetrarch of Abilene." Historical Context: Philip's tetrarchy included the regions of Iturea and Trachonitis, located to the northeast of the Sea of Galilee. These areas were part of the broader Herodian kingdom, which was divided among Herod the Great's sons after his death in 4 BC. Philip's rule lasted from approximately 4 BC until his death in AD 34. Governance and Legacy: Philip is often regarded as a more just and moderate ruler compared to his brothers, Herod Antipas and Archelaus. He is credited with maintaining relative peace and stability in his territories. Philip's administration was marked by a degree of Hellenization, as evidenced by his founding of the city of Caesarea Philippi, named in honor of the Roman Emperor Caesar Augustus and himself. This city became a significant center in the region and is mentioned in the Gospels as a place where Jesus asked His disciples about His identity (Matthew 16:13). Cultural and Religious Influence: Philip's rule coincided with a period of significant religious activity in Judea and the surrounding regions. The presence of John the Baptist and the ministry of Jesus Christ occurred during his tetrarchy. While the New Testament does not provide extensive details about Philip's interactions with these religious figures, his governance set the stage for the unfolding of key events in the life of Christ. Death and Succession: Philip died in AD 34 without leaving an heir. Following his death, his territories were annexed to the Roman province of Syria. The absence of a direct successor marked the end of his tetrarchy as a distinct political entity. Philip's role as tetrarch is a testament to the complex political and cultural dynamics of the Herodian period, providing a backdrop to the New Testament narrative and the life of Jesus Christ. His governance, though less documented than that of his brothers, contributed to the historical and religious milieu of the time. Nave's Topical Index Luke 3:1Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judaea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituraea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene, Nave's Topical Index Library John the Preacher of Repentance One Argument which Has Been Much Relied Upon but not More than Its ... The Gospel of Luke The Historical Situation Light for them that Sit in Darkness; Resources Who was Nathanael in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Herod Antipas? | GotQuestions.org Who was Herod the Great? | GotQuestions.org Philip: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Philip: Caught Away by the Spirit to Azotus, Preaches in the Cities, and Goes to Caesarea Philip: One of the Seven Servants (Greek: Diakonos) Philip: One of the Seven Servants (Greek: Diakonos): Has Four Daughters (Prophetesses) Philip: One of the Seven Servants (Greek: Diakonos): Lives at Caesarea, and Entertains Paul Philip: One of the Seven Servants (Greek: Diakonos): Successfully Preaches in Samaria Philip: One of the Seven Servants : Expounds the Scriptures to the Ethiopian Eunuch Whom he Immerses Philip: One of the Twelve Apostles Philip: One of the Twelve Apostles: Asks Jesus to Show the Father Philip: One of the Twelve Apostles: Brings Certain Greeks to Jesus Who Desire to See Him Philip: One of the Twelve Apostles: Brings Nathanael to Jesus Philip: One of the Twelve Apostles: Call of Philip: The Brother of Herod Antipas and the Husband of Herodias Related Terms |
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