Herod Antipas

Technical Profile

• Name Meaning: Greek Ἡρῴδης (Hērōdēs), “heroic/descendant of a hero,” a dynastic name used by the Herodian rulers.
• Period/Era: Second Temple Period; Roman Imperial Context (early 1st century AD).
• Main References: Matthew 14; Mark 6; Luke 3, 9, 13, 23.
• Key Connections: Son of Herod the Great; husband of Herodias; involved with John the Baptist; encountered Jesus during the Passion narrative (Luke).

Who was Herod Antipas?

Herod Antipas was a Herodian ruler (tetrarch) governing Galilee and Perea under Roman authority.
In the Gospels he appears as a politically powerful figure whose actions intersect with prophetic and messianic ministry.
He is best known for his role in John the Baptist’s imprisonment and death and for questioning Jesus during his trial.

Key Events & Achievements

• Event 1: Imprisoned John the Baptist after John condemned Antipas’s marriage to Herodias (Mark 6:17–18).
• Event 2: Authorized the execution of John the Baptist following a public oath at his birthday banquet (Mark 6:26–28).
• Event 3: Examined Jesus in Jerusalem and sent him back to Pilate, treating the charges with contempt rather than adjudicating them (Luke 23:8–11).

Life Lesson & Legacy

Herod Antipas illustrates how political fear and social pressure can hinder a faithful response to God’s messengers and to Jesus himself.

Key Verse

"For John had been saying to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have her.”" — Mark 6:18, ESV