Who was King Herod, and why did he try to kill Jesus?

When the Magi arrived in Jerusalem asking, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews?” (Matthew 2:2), their question troubled a powerful ruler named King Herod. The Gospel of Matthew explains that Herod reacted with fear, deception, and finally violence. To understand why he tried to kill Jesus, it is important to know who he was and how he ruled.

King Herod, often called Herod the Great, was appointed ruler of Judea by the Roman Empire around 37 BC. Although he was known for large building projects, including the renovation of the Temple in Jerusalem, he was also known for extreme cruelty. Historical sources record that he executed several members of his own family—including his wife and two sons—because he believed they threatened his power.

Herod was not Jewish by descent, but an Idumean (Edomite) ruling over a Jewish population. This made his title, “King of the Jews,” fragile and politically sensitive. When the Magi announced the birth of a child who had a rightful claim to that title, Herod saw Jesus not as a savior, but as a threat to his throne.

Matthew tells us that Herod met the Magi secretly and told them to return with information about the child, pretending he wanted to worship Him (Matthew 2:7–8). However, his real intention was to remove any possible rival. When the Magi did not return, Herod ordered a tragic massacre: the killing of all boys in Bethlehem two years old and under (Matthew 2:16). This event is known as the Massacre of the Innocents. In response, Joseph was warned in a dream, and he took Mary and Jesus to Egypt, fulfilling another prophecy (Matthew 2:13–15; Hosea 11:1).

Herod’s actions reflect a deeper truth: the coming of Jesus confronts worldly power. Jesus did not threaten Herod with armies or political movements. He was an infant born in poverty. Yet His identity as the true King challenged false forms of authority grounded in fear and control. Herod responded with violence because his rule was based on self-preservation rather than trust in God.

If we reflect carefully, the story of Herod shows a contrast between two kingdoms:

• Herod’s kingdom was built on fear, pride, and violence.
• Christ’s Kingdom is built on truth, humility, and love.

Herod tried to stop God’s plan, but he failed. The survival of Jesus and the unfolding of salvation history show that no earthly power can prevent God from fulfilling His promise.

So who was King Herod, and why did he try to kill Jesus? He was a political ruler threatened by the true King. His reaction reveals how human power fears God’s authority. The birth of Jesus exposes the difference between a ruler who clings to power and a Savior who gives His life for the world.

For more questions explained in plain language, visit our Christmas Questions page.