Category:Antipater (subject)
Antipater (1st century BCE) was the Governor of Judea on behalf of the Romans, 55-43 BCE, and the founder of the Herodian dynasty. He was the husband of Cypros and the father of Herod the Great, Phasael, and Salome I.
- This page is edited by Gabriele Boccaccini, University of Michigan.
Overview
Antipater was an Idumean general. His family had risen to military power under Alexander Jannaeus and Salome Alexandra, after the Jewish conquest of Idumea by John Hyrcanus.
Antipater was not only a skilled soldier but a shrewd politician and diplomat, with powerful connections. While serving under the Hasmoneans, he was married with the Nabatean Cypros; Phasael, Herod the Great, and Salome I were among their children.
Antipater took advantage of the conflict between John Hyrcanus II and his brother Aristobulus. He advised Hyrcanus to put himself under the protection of the Nabateans and seek the intervention of the Romans. After Pompey defeated Aristobulus and conquered Jerusalem in 63 BCE, Hyrcanus regained the High Priesthood but now Antipater was de facto and since c55, de iure in charge of affairs of state.
In the struggle between Julius Caesar and Pompey, Antipater quickly sided with Caesar. He distinguished himself in the taking of Pelusium, earned the Roman citizenship and was made procurator of Judea in 47 BCE. He appointed his sons Phasael and Herod the Great governors of Jerusalem and Galilee, respectively.
After the death of Julius Caesar Antipater actively sided with Cassius, who then controlled Syria. In 43 BCE, in the midst of the struggle, Antipas was poisoned, while feasting with John Hyrcanus II, leaving the destiny of the family in the hands of his sons Phasael and Herod the Great.
Antipater in ancient sources
- Antipater (sources) -- survey of ancient sources
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