Who was Herod Antipas in the Bible?

Herod Antipas was a son of Herod the Great and the tetrarch (ruler) of Galilee and Perea during the time of Jesus' ministry. He is most known for ordering the execution of John the Baptist and for questioning Jesus during His trial (Luke 23:7).

What did Herod Antipas do to John the Baptist?

Herod Antipas imprisoned and beheaded John the Baptist. This happened after Herod's step-daughter pleased him with a dance, and he granted her request for John's head on a platter (Matthew 14:6-11).

Why did Herod Antipas want to see Jesus?

Herod Antipas wanted to see Jesus out of curiosity, hoping to witness a miracle. During Jesus' trial, Pilate sent Jesus to Herod, who questioned Him but found no basis for charges and sent Him back (Luke 23:8-11).

Herod

New TestamentNew TestamentMaleA tetrarch

Herod Antipas was the tetrarch of Galilee during Jesus' ministry and played a role in Jesus' trial. (Mat.14.1,3,6; Mrk.6; 8.15; Luk.3.1,19; 8.3; 9.7,9; 13.31; 23.7-12,15; Act.4.27; 13.1)

Herod

Biography

Herod Antipas (c. 20 BC-AD 39) was the son of Herod the Great and tetrarch of Galilee and Perea during the ministries of both John the Baptist and Jesus. He is the 'Herod' most frequently encountered in the Gospel narratives. He unlawfully married Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, a union John the Baptist publicly condemned, leading Antipas to imprison and eventually behead John at Herodias's manipulation (Matthew 14:1-12; Mark 6:14-29). Jesus referred to him as 'that fox' (Luke 13:32). During Jesus' trial, Pilate sent Jesus to Antipas, who was in Jerusalem for Passover, but Antipas, though curious, ultimately mocked Jesus and returned Him to Pilate (Luke 23:7-12).

Significance

Herod Antipas embodies the tragedy of proximity to divine truth without genuine response. He heard John the Baptist gladly and 'did many things' because of him (Mark 6:20), yet ultimately chose political expediency over justice, surrendering to Herodias's vengeance. When confronted with Jesus himself, he sought entertainment rather than truth (Luke 23:8). Antipas illustrates that superficial religious interest, even fascination with prophets and miracles, is no substitute for repentance and faith. His role in both John's death and Jesus' trial places him at the intersection of two defining moments in redemptive history, yet he remains unmoved. His life warns against confusing curiosity about God with genuine surrender to God.

Authority Records

Wikidata