The Ancients Rise of King Herod
38 snips
Dec 11, 2025 
Join experts Benedict Eckhardt, a historian of ancient Judea, Kimberley Tchaikovsky, a lecturer on Herod's military strategies, and Helen Bond, an authority on Christian origins, as they unravel the complex legacy of King Herod. They explore his perilous rise from a tumultuous childhood, his cunning alliances with Rome, and dramatic power plays involving iconic figures like Cleopatra and Julius Caesar. Delve into the intricate political landscape that shaped his reign and discover how this notorious ruler defied the odds to carve his name in history.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Rise As A Tragic Roman Installation
- Herod's rise blends Greek tragedy with Roman politics, featuring battles, murders, and family deaths.
- Benedict Eckhardt explains Rome decisively installed Herod as king, not local consensus.
Judea Between Empires
- Judea sat between weakening Hellenistic states and an expanding Rome in Herod's youth.
- The Hasmoneans derived prestige from resisting Seleucid Hellenisation, shaping local politics.
Herod's Idumean Elite Origins
- Herod's family came from Idumea and served Hasmonean rulers after forced conversion.
- Antipas, Herod's grandfather, governed Edom under Hasmonean oversight.