Herod(2)
Herod in the Bible — the tetrarch (MAT 14:1). Herod belonged to the tribe of Edom. Referenced in 6 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “son of a hero”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Tribe
- Edom
- Scripture References
- 6 references
- Known Names
- 3 names
- Relationships
- 3 connections
Biography
Herod, a male of the tribe of Edom, is identified as the tetrarch of Galilee and Perea, a title indicating his rule over these regions. Known specifically as Herod Antipas, he held a significant political position during the New Testament period. His role as tetrarch is noted in Matthew 14:1, situating him within the historical and biblical context as a regional ruler.
Names & Titles
The name 'Herod' appears as a proper name without a specified meaning in Matthew 14:1. He is also referred to by titles that reflect his authority: 'King Herod' in Mark 6:14, and 'Tetrarch of Galilee' in Luke 3:1, the latter meaning 'great prince of the Galilee.' These titles emphasize his political power rather than a divine appointment.
Family
Scripture records that Herod was a son, as inferred in Matthew 14:1, and explicitly names Philip as his brother in Matthew 14:3. Additionally, Chuza is mentioned as a master in Luke 8:3, suggesting a connection to Herod's household. Beyond these, no further family relationships are documented in the provided references.
Significance
Herod's significance in the biblical narrative centers on his role as tetrarch, governing Galilee and Perea during the time of Jesus' ministry. His political position places him in direct interaction with key New Testament events and figures. As a ruler from the tribe of Edom, his governance reflects the complex political landscape into which Christ was born and ministered.
Names & Labels (3)
- Hebrew
- הוֹרְדוֹס
- Transliteration
- horədos
- Greek
- Ἡρῴδης
- Reference
- MAT 14:1
- Strong's
- none
- Hebrew
- מֶּלֶךְ הוֹרְדוֹס
- Transliteration
- melekh horədos
- Meaning
- king herod
- Greek
- βασιλεὺς Ἡρῴδης
- Reference
- MRK 6:14
- Strong's
- H4428, none
- Hebrew
- שַׂר רֹבַע עַל הַגָּלִיל
- Transliteration
- sar rova al haggalil
- Meaning
- great prince of the Galilee
- Greek
- τετρααρχοῦντος τῆς Γαλιλαίας
- Reference
- LUK 3:1
- Strong's
- H8269, H7250, H5921, H1551
Notes
Herod Antipas, tetrarch of Gailiea and Perea
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Herod in the Bible?
Herod, a male of the tribe of Edom, is identified as the tetrarch of Galilee and Perea, a title indicating his rule over these regions. Known specifically as Herod Antipas, he held a significant political position during the New Testament period. His role as tetrarch is noted in Matthew 14:1, situating him within the historical and biblical context as a regional ruler.
What does the name Herod mean?
The name Herod means “son of a hero” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.