Bible Dictionary
Herod Antipas
Herod Antipas was a son of Herod the Great and tetrarch of Galilee and Perea. He imprisoned and executed John the Baptist and later questioned Jesus before His crucifixion.
Definition
Herod Antipas was a son of Herod the Great by Malthace and tetrarch of Galilee and Perea. He ruled during the ministry of John the Baptist and Jesus.
Biblical Usage
Antipas imprisoned and executed John the Baptist after John condemned his marriage to Herodias. During Jesus’ trial, Pilate sent Him to Antipas, who was then in Jerusalem for the Passover; Antipas questioned Him but did not pronounce the final sentence.
Historical Background
Antipas first married a daughter of Aretas and later Herodias, the wife of his half-brother. He founded Tiberias in honor of the emperor. His ambition for the title of king led to his banishment to Lugdunum in A.D. 39, and Herodias accompanied him.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
Herod’s son by Malthace (Matt. 14:1; Luke 3:1, 19; 9:7; Acts 13:1). (See ANTIPAS.)