### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **tetrárchēs**, represented by `{{G5076}}`, is a specific political title derived from words meaning "four" and "to rule." Its base definition is **the ruler of a fourth part of a country ("tetrarch")**. This term appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses**, where it is used to identify a specific regional governor within the Roman-controlled territory.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5076}}` is exclusively used to describe Herod Antipas. His official title of **tetrarch** establishes his specific authority and role in the events of the Gospels and Acts. He is identified as the **tetrarch** who heard of the fame of Jesus [[Matthew 14:1]] and was perplexed by the works done by him [[Luke 9:7]]. This title also appears in a historical context, noting that a man named Manaen had been brought up with Herod the **tetrarch** [[Acts 13:1]]. The term is pivotally used when describing John the Baptist reproving Herod the **tetrarch** for his sinful actions, particularly concerning Herodias [[Luke 3:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to clarify the context in which Herod the tetrarch appears:
* `{{G2264}}` **Hērṓdēs** (Herod): This is the proper name of the ruler who holds the title of **tetrarch** in all four instances where `{{G5076}}` is used [[Matthew 14:1]].
* `{{G80}}` **adelphós** (brother): This term defines the relationship at the center of John's rebuke, as Herod was condemned for taking his **brother** Philip's wife [[Luke 3:19]].
* `{{G1135}}` **gynḗ** (wife): This word identifies Herodias as the **wife** of Herod's brother, which was the cause of the controversy [[Luke 3:19]].
* `{{G4190}}` **ponērós** (evil): This descriptor is used to characterize the actions of the tetrarch, as John reproved him "for all the **evils** which Herod had done" [[Luke 3:19]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative weight of `{{G5076}}` is centered on its role in defining a key political figure in opposition to God's messengers.
* **Historical Grounding:** The title of **tetrarch** provides specific historical and political context to the Gospels, anchoring the ministry of Jesus and John the Baptist in a real-world setting of Roman provincial rule.
* **Authority and Conflict:** The individual identified as the **tetrarch** is consistently shown as an authority figure who is troubled by or in direct conflict with the divine work being done, as when he heard of Jesus's ministry [[Matthew 14:1]] or was reproved by John [[Luke 3:19]].
* **Moral Contrast:** The use of **tetrarch** is directly tied to a narrative of moral failure, where a powerful earthly ruler is called to account for the "evils which Herod had done" [[Luke 3:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5076}}` is more than just a political designation; it is a title that defines a key antagonist in the New Testament narrative. Its use is exclusively linked to Herod, framing him as a regional authority whose actions and perplexity in the face of Jesus's ministry highlight the tension between earthly power and divine truth. The term firmly places the gospel events within a specific historical framework of political power and moral accountability.
TRV