Herod

Herod was the family name for several rulers. Although all the Herods were under the authority of the Roman emperor, they could rule their own country as long as they did not rebel against the Romans. Here are the Herods:

Herod the Great. King over Israel and some surrounding areas about 73 to 4 BC. Herod the Great was known for his building projects, including the temple in Jerusalem. Jesus was born during Herod’s reign. Herod ordered the killing of all baby boys in Bethlehem when he heard a new king had been born.

Herod Archelaus. The son of Herod the Great who became ruler of Judea and Samaria after his father died. God warned Joseph in a dream of the danger from this king. So he took his family and settled in Nazareth when they returned from Egypt. Archelaus’s rule was short. He was banished to what is now France in AD 6.

Herod Antipas. Another son of Herod the Great who became ruler of Galilee after the death of his father. Jesus called him “that fox.” Herod Antipas was the ruler who had John the Baptist killed.

Herod Agrippa I. Grandson of Herod the Great. He ruled most of Israel from AD 40 to 44. He is the ruler who had the apostle James killed and Peter imprisoned. He died suddenly in AD 44 at age fifty-four after he permitted his followers to say he was a god. God struck him with intestinal worms.

Herod Agrippa II. Known in the Bible as King Agrippa. He was the son of Herod Agrippa I. He ruled Galilee and some areas east of the Sea of Galilee from AD 53 to 70. He is the ruler who heard Paul defend himself against Jewish charges.

Herod Philip. Another son of Herod the Great and the builder of Caesarea Philippi.