Category:Aretas IV Philopatris (subject)
Aretas IV Philopatris was a Nabatean King, from c. 9 BCE to 40 CE.
See Nabatean Kings
Overview
While seeking a more autonomous role in the region, Aretas IV recognized the supremacy of the Romans, receiving in exchange recognition of his own power by Augustus and his successors.
In 4 BCE Nabatean forces were sent to join the expedition of Varus against the rebellious Jews.
A daughter of Aretas, Phasaelis married Herod Antipas but was then divorced when Herod took his brother's wife Herodias. In retaliation, in 36 Aretas invaded Herod's holdings and defeated his army. Josephus wrote that many Jews saw in Herod's defeat God's punishment for the execution of John the Baptist.
Aretas was allowed by Caligula to regain control of Damascus, as attested by the events narrated in the Acts of Apostles, related to the adventurous flight of Paul of Tarsus from the city.
Aretas IV Philopatris in ancient sources
- Aretas IV Philopatris (sources) -- survey of ancient sources
Related categories
External links
This category currently contains no pages or media.