Herod's Age At Appointment

High Level 1

Fact

Herod was 15 years old when appointed governor of Galilee in 55/54 BC

Evidence

• Josephus Antiquities 14.8.5 - Herod appointed governor of Galilee

• Josephus Antiquities 14.9.2 - Notes he was very young at the time

• Some manuscripts say 15 years, others say 25 years

• The 15-year reading is consistent with his ~70 year lifespan and 1 BC death

• If 15 years old in 55 BC, born ~70 BC, died ~1 BC at approximately 70 years old

Read in Context

• Herod's Age at Death

  "To further confirm the reign and death of Herod..."

Depends On

Pompey's Capture of Jerusalem Very High

Required By

Herod's Birth Year High

Herod's age at appointment provides an independent check on his death year. Combined with the eclipse evidence, it supports the 1 BC death date.