Herod's Birth Year

High Level 1

Fact

Herod the Great was born ~70/69 BC

Evidence

  • If appointed governor at 15 in 55/54 BC, born ~70/69 BC

  • Josephus says he died at approximately 70 years old

  • 70 years from 70 BC = 1 BC death

  • This is consistent with the January 1 BC eclipse

Supporting Facts

Depends On

Herod's birth year can be calculated from his age at appointment as governor. This provides independent confirmation of the 1 BC death date.