The primary individual known for trying to kill Jesus, based on biblical accounts, was Herod the Great.
Herod's Attempt on Jesus' Life
According to the Bible, Herod the Great, the ruler of Judea, felt threatened by the news of the birth of the "King of the Jews." This led him to take drastic measures.
The Massacre of the Innocents
- Fear and Paranoia: Herod's fear of losing his power to a new king prompted him to take action.
- Order for Execution: He ordered the execution of all male children in and around Bethlehem who were two years old and under. This event is referred to as the "Massacre of the Innocents."
- Motive: This action was aimed at eliminating the perceived threat to his reign, including the baby Jesus.
| Individual | Role | Action | Motivation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Herod the Great | Ruler of Judea | Ordered the execution of all male children two and under in Bethlehem. | Fear of losing power to a new king. |
Herod the Great is not only known for this event, but also for:
- Architectural projects: He reconstructed and expanded the Jerusalem Temple.
- Fortification: He built fortresses.
- Pagan temples: He built pagan temples.
Herod's attempt to kill Jesus is a significant event in biblical history.
