### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Ἡρώδης (Hērṓdēs)**, represented by `{{G2264}}`, is the name for **Herod**, appearing as the name of four Jewish kings in the New Testament. Derived from words meaning "heroic," it is used **44 times** across **41 unique verses**. This name consistently signifies rulers who interact with, and often oppose, key figures in the emerging Christian faith.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, the name `{{G2264}}` identifies different rulers at pivotal moments. The first, Herod the Great, was the **king** `{{G935}}` of Judaea at the time of Jesus's birth ([[Matthew 2:1]], [[Luke 1:5]]). Upon hearing of the newborn "King of the Jews," he became troubled and sought to **destroy** `{{G622}}` the child ([[Matthew 2:3]], [[Matthew 2:13]]). This led to his infamous command to **slew** `{{G337}}` all the male children in Bethlehem [[Matthew 2:16]]. A later Herod, the **tetrarch** `{{G5076}}` Antipas, ruled Galilee and is known for beheading John the Baptist ([[Matthew 14:10]], [[Luke 9:9]]) and for his role in Jesus's trial. Pilate sent Jesus to Herod, who, after mocking him, sent him back, leading the two rulers to become **friends** `{{G5384}}` that day [[Luke 23:11-12]]. Finally, the book of Acts describes another Herod the **king** `{{G935}}` who vexed the church and had the apostle Peter imprisoned ([[Acts 12:1]], [[Acts 12:11]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the status and actions of the figures named Herod:
* `{{G935}}` **basileús** (king): This title is frequently applied to Herod, establishing his royal authority during the events of Jesus's birth and the persecution of the early church ([[Matthew 2:1]], [[Acts 12:1]]).
* `{{G5076}}` **tetrárchēs** (tetrarch): This title, meaning the ruler of a fourth part of a country, specifies the authority of Herod Antipas over Galilee during his interactions with John the Baptist and Jesus [[Matthew 14:1]].
* `{{G615}}` **apokteínō** (to kill outright): This word captures the lethal intent of Herod, as when the Pharisees warned Jesus, "Herod **will kill** thee" [[Luke 13:31]].
* `{{G1702}}` **empaízō** (to jeer at, i.e. deride): This term reveals the contempt central to Herod's story. He grew wroth after being **mocked** by the wise men [[Matthew 2:16]], and later, he and his soldiers **mocked** Jesus during His trial [[Luke 23:11]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{G2264}}` is primarily as a representation of worldly power opposing God's unfolding plan.
* **Antagonist to Divine Messengers:** The Herods consistently act as adversaries. Herod the Great attempts to murder the infant Jesus [[Matthew 2:13]], Herod Antipas executes the **prophet** `{{G4396}}` John the Baptist [[Mark 6:16]], and Herod Agrippa I vexes the church [[Acts 12:1]].
* **Fulfillment of Scripture:** The actions of Herod are presented as fulfilling prophecy. The early church saw the alliance of Herod and Pilate against Jesus as a direct fulfillment of the kings of the earth gathering against the Lord's **anointed** `{{G5548}}` [[Acts 4:27]].
* **Symbol of Earthly Authority:** The Herods, with their titles, **armies** `{{G4753}}`, and judgment halls `{{G4232}}`, embody the temporal authority of the world. Herod Antipas was more interested in seeing a miracle than in justice [[Luke 23:8]], and Herod Agrippa I's self-glorifying **oration** `{{G1215}}` showcases the pride of earthly rulers [[Acts 12:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2264}}` is not the name of a single individual but a dynastic name representing a line of rulers who played a crucial, and consistently antagonistic, role in the New Testament. From the attempt on the infant Jesus's life to the persecution of the apostles, the Herods serve as recurring figures of earthly power set in opposition to the kingdom of God. Their stories illustrate a central biblical theme: the conflict between the transient authority of human kings and the unstoppable, eternal plan of the divine King.
TRV