too, changed from a crowded and dilapidated provincial city into a major
pilgrimage site and tourist attraction of the Greco-Roman world (see map
9). Despite his significant achievements, Herod’s reign was not a smooth
one. In his early years, one of his major concerns was establishing and
maintaining his own legitimacy. As a usurper who had risen to power
through Roman support, his claims to legitimacy were somewhat suspect.
In addition to legitimacy issues, he also had to contend with the ambitions
of Cleopatra, who wanted to reclaim the Ptolemaic Empire and annex
Judea to her kingdom. Through astute political maneuvering, he was able
to keep Cleopatra at bay and rule in relative security until 30b.c.e.In that
year, Herod’s patron Antony, along with Cleopatra, was defeated by
Octavian Caesar at the Battle of Actium. Like his father before him, Herod
wisely saw the benefit of switching loyalties, so he quickly sailed to Rhodes
to persuade the victorious Octavian that he could fit well into his new re-
gime as a loyal and friendly client king. Octavian confirmed Herod’s posi-
tion and enlarged his kingdom (J.W.1.386-97;Ant.15.187-201). For the next
twenty-six years, Herod provided a stable and friendly ally on the eastern
border and promoted economic development and Romanization in Judea.
As a reward for his services, Octavian, who after 27b.c.e.was known as
Augustus, bestowed upon Herod additional territories such as Trachonitis,
Batanea, and Auranitis in 24/23b.c.e.and Ulatha and Paneas in 20. He also
ceded Herod control of the copper mines on Cyprus and half of their reve-
nue. Thus, by the end of his reign, Herod ruled over a kingdom that rivaled
all previous Jewish monarchies in size, wealth, and importance within the
Mediterranean world.
Despite his numerous political and economic successes, Herod’s reign
was also marked by considerable domestic difficulties. His relationship
with his Jewish subjects was periodically strained partially due to his
somewhat ambiguous attitude toward Judaism. Internal dissension among
his own family also caused Herod numerous problems and resulted in the
execution of three sons and one wife as well as several other relatives and
friends. Finally, a series of riots and disturbances broke out after his death
in 4b.c.e.Such social disorder suggests considerable dissatisfaction with
the regime among many of his subjects. Despite these failings, Herod
achieved enough legitimacy and security during his reign to rule without
any significant threat to the stability of his kingdom. Furthermore, he was
able to bequeath his kingdom to his three chosen successors, his sons
Herod Archelaus, Herod Antipas, and Herod Philip.51
Jewish History from Alexander to HadrianEERDMANS -- Early Judaism (Collins and Harlow) final text
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