Maybe the Nativity doesn't look quite like we think it does
With Alexander and Aristobulus out of the way, Antipater became Herod’s leading prospect as successor, and virtual co-ruler with his father. But despite the evident certitude of his position, it never occurred to Antipater, that as Herod’s oldest son and Read More …
In 29 BCE, Herod executed his beloved second wife Mariamne I for adultery, for which her sons Alexander III and Aristobulus IV would never forgive him. Still only children, Herod sent them to Rome for education. Upon their return to Read More …
Herod’s father, Antipater II, was assassinated by a political enemy, to which Herod responded in kind. His brother Phasael’s death is shrouded in mystery—did he commit suicide or was he murdered while in Parthian custody? During his career, Herod “executed” Read More …
“…and went beyond the river Jordan, and bathed himself in the warm baths that were at Callirrhoe…” Josephus, Antiquities of the Jews, 17.6.5 “Callirrhoe” (pronounced kal-eer-ho-ee) in Greek means, “beautiful stream”. The phrase therma kallirhoes means, “warm beautiful stream”. In Read More …
We are pleased to announce the posting of Faith and Treason: An Introduction to the Political and Religious Sects in Judea at the Birth of Christ. Patrons of all levels will receive an essay like this each month. Higher Read More …