Topical Bible: Rulers: Wicked: Herod Antipas, in Craftiness and Tyranny

◄ Rulers: Wicked: Herod Antipas, in Craftiness and Tyranny ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Herod Antipas, a son of Herod the Great, is a prominent figure in the New Testament, known for his cunning and tyrannical rule. He governed as tetrarch of Galilee and Perea from 4 BC to AD 39. His reign is marked by political maneuvering and moral corruption, which are vividly depicted in the Gospels.

Craftiness and Political Maneuvering

Herod Antipas is often remembered for his shrewd political strategies. He maintained his position by carefully navigating the complex political landscape of the Roman Empire. His craftiness is evident in his interactions with both Roman authorities and Jewish leaders. Herod's political acumen allowed him to retain power despite the volatile environment of the time.

One of the most notable instances of his cunning is his involvement in the trial of Jesus. When Jesus was brought before Pilate, the Roman governor sent Him to Herod, as Jesus was a Galilean and under Herod's jurisdiction. Herod, eager to see Jesus perform a miracle, questioned Him at length but received no answer. Frustrated, Herod and his soldiers mocked Jesus, dressing Him in a splendid robe before sending Him back to Pilate (Luke 23:6-11). This episode highlights Herod's attempt to use the situation to his advantage, avoiding direct responsibility for Jesus' fate while mocking Him to appease the Jewish leaders.

Tyranny and Moral Corruption

Herod Antipas' rule was also characterized by moral depravity and tyrannical actions. His most infamous act was the execution of John the Baptist. John had openly criticized Herod for marrying Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, which was both unlawful and scandalous (Mark 6:17-18). Herodias harbored a grudge against John and sought his death. Herod, though initially reluctant to kill John due to his fear of the people who regarded John as a prophet, eventually succumbed to Herodias' manipulation.

During a banquet, Herodias' daughter, Salome, performed a dance that pleased Herod so much that he promised to give her anything she desired, up to half his kingdom. Prompted by her mother, Salome requested the head of John the Baptist on a platter. Though distressed, Herod ordered John's execution to fulfill his oath and save face before his guests (Mark 6:21-28). This brutal act underscores Herod's tyrannical nature and his willingness to commit murder to maintain his authority and satisfy his own desires.

Herod Antipas' life and rule serve as a cautionary tale of the dangers of unchecked ambition, moral compromise, and the abuse of power. His actions, as recorded in the New Testament, reflect a ruler who prioritized personal gain and political expediency over justice and righteousness.

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Luke 13:31,32
The same day there came certain of the Pharisees, saying to him, Get you out, and depart hence: for Herod will kill you.
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