The lives & deaths of most of those eminent persons who by their virtue and valour obtained the sirnames of Magni,or the Great whereof divers of them give much light to the understanding of the prophecies in Esay, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel, concerning the three first monarchies : and to other Scriptures concerning the captivity, and restauration of the Jews / by Samuel Clark ...

THE WICKED LIFE AND WOFUL DEATH OF HEROD the GREAT, In whose time Our LORD CHRIST was Born.

HEROD,* 1.1 sirnamed the Great, was the Son of Antipas, or Antipater, an Idumaean, a prime man, both for birth and wealth, amongst them: His Mothers name was Cyprus, born at an eminent place amongst the Arabians, so that when this Herod acquired the Kingdom of Judea, that Pro∣phesie of old Jacob was fulfilled, Gen. 49. 10. The Scepter shall not depart from Judah, nor a Law-giver from between his feet, until Shiloh come.

This Antipater, riding his circuit about the Province of Judea, whereof Julius Caesar had made him Governour, repressed them who were desirous of innovation, both by threats and counsel, telling them, that if they would be content with their Prince Hyrcanus, (whom Caesar also had confirmed in the High-Priesthood) they might live happily in their own possessions: but if they promised themselves new hopes, and thought that they should gain much by innovations, they should have him a Master instead of a Governour, and Hyrcanus a Tyrant instead of a King: and Caesar, and the Romans, bitter ene∣mies instead of Princes; for that they would by no means suffer any thing to be altered from what they had setled. But Antipater perceiving Hyrcanus to be dull and idle, he settled the state of the Province as himself pleased, making his elder Son, Phasaelus, Governour of Jerusalem, and the Countries adjoyning; and to Herod his second Son, being then a very young man, he committed the care of Galilee.

Herod being Praefect of Galilee,* 1.2 there was one Esekias, a Jew, who, associating

to himself many other lewd persons, exercised thievery, and used to make in∣cursions into Syria in Troops:* 1.3 These Herod pursued, and having taken Esekias, he put him to Death; which fact of his, gat him much favour with the Syri∣ans, which Province also was then under his Government.

The violence, and bold nature of Herod, who was desirous of the Tyranny, much terrified the Princes of the Jews, wherefore they addressed themselves to Hyrcanus, and openly accused Antipater; but especially they complain∣ed of Herod, for that he had put to death Esekias, with many others, without any Commission from Hyrcanus, in contempt of their Laws, by which, no man ought to suffer, though never so wicked, unless he were first condem∣ned by the Judges. The Mothers also of them that were killed, ceased not daily in the Temple to weary both the King and the people with their con∣tinual exclamations, desiring that Herod might be made to give an account of these his doings before the Sanhedrim:* 1.4 whereupon Hyrcanus, moved here∣with, commanded Herod to be called before the Council, and to plead his own cause.

Herod, having ordered the affairs of Galilee, as he thought best for his own advantage, being fore-warned by his Father, that he should not come into the Council as a Private Person, he took with him a moderate, but yet a sufficient Guard: not too great, lest he should terrifie Hyrcanus, nor too little, lest he should expose himself to danger from the Judgment. When Herod therefore presented himself before the Sanhedrim in his Royal Robes,* 1.5 and his Guard in Arms, they were all astonished, neither durst any one of them that accused him in his absence, now speak a word against him; but all of them kept silence,* 1.6 not knowing what to do. Then one of the Council, called Sameas, a just man, being not at all distracted with fear, rose up, and not only accused Herod of presumption and violence, but laid the fault upon the Judges, and King himself, who had granted him so great a liberty, and told them, that afterwards,* 1.7 by the just Judgment of God, they should be punished by Herod himself; and the event made him a true Prophet. For the Judges of that Council, and Hyrcanus himself, were afterwards put to death by Herod, when he came to be King. But Hyrcanus perceiving that the Judges were inclining to pass sentence of Death upon Herod, put off the business till the next day,* 1.8 and privately advised him to shift for himself; and so he departed to Damascus, as if he fled from the King, and presenting himself before Sextus Caesar,* 1.9 and having secured his own affairs, he professed openly, that if he were again cited by the Judges, he would not appear; which they took in great dis∣dain, and endeavoured to perswade Hyrcanus that all these things tended to his destruction.

Herod,* 1.10 to increase his power, gave a great sum of money to Sextus Caesar, who thereupon made him Governour of Caelosyria: He, being elated with this advancement, and taking it impatiently that he had been called before the Council, raised an Army, and went against Hyrcanus: But his Father Antipa∣ter, and Brother Phasaelus meeting him, by their intreaties prevailed, that he should not go against Jerusalem, but be content to have affrighted them, ad∣ding that it would be dishonourable for him, if he should attempt any thing farther against him that had advanced him to his dignity; hereupon he desist∣ed, judging it sufficient for his future hopes, that he had shewed to that Nation of what power he was.

Cassius and Marcus,* 1.11 two Roman Generals, coming into Syria, after the death of Julius Caesar, confirmed Herod in his Government of Caelosyria, and delivered to him great Forces both of Horse and Foot, and Ships at Sea, promising him also the Kingdom of Judea, after the War should be ended, which they were waging with M. Anthony and young Caesar.

Not long after, Antipater (the Father of Herod) was feasted at Hyrcanus

his house,* 1.12 at which time, one Malichus, corrupting the Kings Butler, poy∣soned Antipater, and presently raising a band of Souldiers, seized upon the Government of the City of Jerusalem. Phasaelus and Herod being grievously offended hereat, charged Malichus with their Fathers death, which he stifly denied: But Herod had a great mind presently to revenge the murther, and to raise an Army for that purpose, had not Phasaelus interposed, who judged it more meet to circumvent Malichus by Policy, lest they should seem to be the beginners of a civil War, and accordingly Phasaelus made as though he accepted of Malichus his justification, and believed that he was not guilty of his Fathers Death, and so busied himself in building a stately Monument for him.

In the mean while, Herod coming to Samaria, and finding it in a desperate estate, by reason of their civil Dissentions, he appeased the discords amongst the Inhabitants, and restored it to peace: and not long after, the Feast of Pentecost approaching,* 1.13 he went to Jerusalem, accompanied with some Soul∣diers, of whom Malichus being afraid, perswaded Hyrcanus not to suffer him to enter; which Hyrcanus accordingly did, alledging that amongst the holy People that came to the Feast, it was not lawful to bring in a mix'd multitude of prophane men. But Herod making small account of the prohibition, en∣tred the City by night, and thereby mightily terrified Malichus; who, there∣upon, according to his wonted dissimulations, openly bewailed with tears the death of Antipater, as of his dear Friend: And it was judged meet by He∣rods Friends, that he should take no notice of this dissimulation, but courte∣ously again entertain Malichus.

Herod, by Letters, certified Cassius of his Fathers death, who, very well knowing the temper of Malichus,* 1.14 wrote back unto Herod to revenge the same, and secretly also gave order to the Tribunes that were at Tyre, to be aiding to Herod in his so just undertaking.

Cassius afterwar, having taken the City of Laodicea, Governours came from every place, bringing Crowns and Presents to him: and here Herod, expect∣ing that Malichus should do the like, intended to have him punished for the Murther of his Father: But Malichus had another design on foot, purposing, that whilest Cassius was busie in prosecuting the war against M. Anthony, to stir up the Nation of the Jews to revolt from the Romans, and to depose Hyrcanus, and get the Kingdom to himself; But Herod, being politick, and understand∣ing of the treachery, invited him and Hyrcanus, with some other of their com∣panions, to supper: At which time he sent one of his Servants, under pretence of providing for the Banquet, whereas indeed he sent him to the Tribunes, to desire them to set upon Malichus with their weapons, who, being mindful of the commands of Cassius,* 1.15 finding Malichus, they ran him through, and slew him; at which, Hyrcanus being astonished, fell into a swoun, and being scarce∣ly come to himself, he asked who had slain Malichus, and when one of the Tribunes answered, that it was done by the command of Cassius, he said, Truly Cassius hath preserved me and my Country, in killing him who was a Traitor to both; but whether herein he spake as he thought, or that through fear only he seemed to approve the fact, is uncertain.

After Cassius was gone out of Syria,* 1.16 there arose a Sedition at Jerusalem. For Faelix, who was left there by Cassius with Souldiers, in revenge of the death of Malichus, set upon Phasaelus, and the people betook themselves to their Arms. At which time, Herod was with Fabius, the Governour of Damascus, and had a mind to help his Brother, but was hindred by a sudden sickness: Yet did Phasaelus get the better of Faelix, forcing him into the Town, and afterwards agreeing upon quarter, suffered him to go out: But he was very angry with Hyrcanus, that after the receipt of so many favours from him, he yet favoured Faelix, and suffered the Brother of Malichus to seize upon some Castles, and

amongst the rest, of the Castle of Massada, which was a most strong piece.

As soon as Herod was recovered, he went against the Brother of Malichus, and took from him all the Castles that he had seized upon,* 1.17 and Massada also, where he took him Prisoner, yet afterwards set him at liberty upon composi∣tion. He also recovered three Castles that were seized upon by Masion, the Tyrant of the Tyrians in Galilee, but gave Quarter to all the Souldiers, and sent them home well rewarded;* 1.18 by which means he procured the love of the Citi∣zens, but the greater hatred of the Tyrant.

Shortly after, Antigonus, the Son of Aristobulus, Brother to Hyrcanus, inva∣ded Judea, being assisted by Ptolomei, the son of Menaeus, and Fabius the Go∣vernour of Damascus, and Masion, the Tyrant of the Tyrians, who adhered to him for the hatred that he bore to Herod, whom Herod meeting, when they had scarce entred the borders of Judea,* 1.19 overcame them in Battel, and drave them thence; whereupon Hyrcanus honoured him with Crowns, as soon as he returned to Jerusalem: For he was already accounted as one of the Family of Hyrcanus, being to marry Mariamne, or Mary, the daughter of Alexander, the Son of Aristobulus, the Brother of Hyrcanus, and of Alexandra, the daughter of Hyrcanus.

M. Anthony having overcome Brutus and Cassius, there met him Ambas∣sies from all Nations in Bythinia, and amongst the rest, some of the Ru∣lers of the Jews, to accuse Phasaelus and Herod, alledging that Hyrcanus ru∣led only in shew, but in truth, all the power was in the two Brothers: Yet Anthony highly honoured Herod, who was come thither to wipe of all those objections, whereby it came to pass, that his Adversaries were not so much as admitted to speak with Anthony: and this Herod had obtained by his Bribes.

Yet not long after,* 1.20 there came an hundred of the most honourable amongst the Jews, to Daphne, near Antioch, in Syria, to Anthony, to accuse Phasaelus and Herod, having chosen out of their whole number the most Eloquent, to manage their business: But Messala undertook the defence of the two Brothers, with whom also Hyrcanus joyned, who had betrothed his Grand-daughter to Herod. Both Parties being heard, Anthony asked Hyrcanus, whe∣ther of the two parties were fittest to Govern a Commonwealth? who, speak∣ing for the young men,* 1.21 Anthony that loved them for their Fathers sake, his old Friend, he made them both Tetrarchs, leaving to them the Government of all Judea, writing his Letters to the same purpose, and clapped fifteen of their Ad∣versaries into Prison, and would have put them to death, had not Herod in∣treated for them. But when the People did nothing but rail upon Herod, An∣thony in displeasure slew them all.

Antigonus the Son of Aristobulus hired the Parthians to translate the King∣dom from Hyrcanus to himself and to kill Herod,* 1.22 who coming along with him, and some Jews also joyning themselves to him, he came to Jerusalem, and they set upon the Kings House: But Phasaelus and Herod defended it a∣gainst them; and in the Market place, overcoming them in a fight, forced them to fly into the Temple, where they shut them in, and placed sixty men in some adjoyning houses, to prevent their flight: but the people hating the two brethren, set fire on those Houses, and burnt the men in them, which so inraged Herod, that he slew many of the people: and each laying wait for the other, every day some were murdered.

The day of Pentecost being come, many thousands of men, as well armed as unarmed,* 1.23 gathered together about the Temple, from all parts of the Coun∣try, and seized upon the Temple, and City, all but the Kings House, which He∣rod kept with a few Souldiers, as Phasaelus did the walls. These brothers assist∣ing each other, assaulted their enemies, in the Suburbs forced many thou∣sands

of them to flie, some into the City, and some into the Temple, and o∣thers into a rampire that was near the City.

Hereupon Antigonus desired that Pacorus, the General of the Parthians might be admitted to make peace between them:* 1.24 which Phasaelus assented to, and Pacorus perswaded him to go with him as an Ambassador to Barzapharnes (another General of the Parthians) laying an ambush for him by the way: Phasaelus assented, though much against the mind of his Brother Herod, and was willing to go with Pacorus, and took Hyrcanus along with him. Pa∣corus leaving two hundred Horsemen with Herod, and ten whom they called Eleutheri, went along with the Ambassadors. And as soon as they were come into Galile, Barzapharnes entertained them with a cheerful countenance, and bestowed gifts upon them, but watched an opportunity to intrap them: and so Phasaelus was brought with his Company to a place near the Sea-side called Ecdippon; where Ophellus, a rich Syrian, understanding of the treache∣ry intended against them, offered Phasaelus some Ships to carry him away: But he unwilling to leave Hyrcanus, and his Brother Herod in danger, expo∣stulated with Barzapharnes about the injury offered to them who were Am∣bassadors, who swore that these things were not true, and presently went to Pacorus.

No sooner was he gon, but Hyrcanus and Phasaelus were clapped up in Pri∣son, much detesting the perfidiousness of the Parthians: and an Eunuch also was sent to Herod with a command to surprize him if he could get him out of Jerusalem.* 1.25 Herod having intelligence what had happened to his Brother, taking with him such forces as he had in readiness, and his Mother Cybele, his Sister Salome, his Wife Mariamne, and his Wives Mother A∣lexandra, the Daughter of Hyrcanus, and his yougest Brother Pheroras, with their Servants, he privately by Night took his flight into Idu∣maea.

In their journey, his Mother, by the overthrow of her Coach, was in great danger of death, and Herod, fearing least the enemies should overtake them whilest they stayed there,* 1.26 drew forth his Sword, thinking to kill him∣self: But being restrained by those which stood by, he went towards Massa∣da, a very strong place, which is seated in Arabia, and Palestine, by the nea∣rest way that he could possible: The Parthians first, and also the Jews pur∣suing him by that he was sixty furlongs from the City, but he repelled them both in fight.

The next day after Herod had fled from Jerusalem,* 1.27 the Parthians plun∣dered the City, and the Kings House; only the Treasure of Hyrcanus which was three hundred Talents, remained untouched. A great part also of He∣rods substance which he had not carried away with him, they siezed upon; and not satisfied therewith, they harrized all the Country also, and razed the rich City of Marissa.

Antigonus being thus setled in Judaea by the Parthians,* 1.28 he received into his custody Hyrcanus, and Phasaelus, who were Prisoners: yet he was much grie∣ved that the Women were got away, whom he had intended to deliver to the Parthians, together with the money which he had promised to give them. Being afraid also lest Hyrcanus should again by the favour of the People be restored to his Kingdom and Priest-hood,* 1.29 he cut off his ears, thereby rendring him unfit for the Priest-hood, the Law forbidding that any one who wanted a member should approach to the Altar. Lev. 21. 17, &c.

Phasaelus knowing that his death was determined sought to lay vio∣lent hands upon himself,* 1.30 but being hindred by reason of his chains, he dashed out his brains against a stone: Yet before he was quite dead, hearing by a Woman that his Brother Herod was escaped, he greatly rejoyced that there was one left to revenge his death. The Parthians, though they missed of the

Women, which they most of all desired, yet having setled all things at Jeru∣salem with Antigonus, when they departed, took Hyrcanus along with them Prisoner into Parthia.

Herod not hearing of his Brother Phasaelius his death,* 1.31 went to Malchus, the King of the Arabians [Nabathaeans] who were obliged to him by many fa∣vours he had done them, purposing so soon as possibly he could to redeem his Brother for three hundred Talents from the enemy: For which cause he carried along with him young Phasaelus, his Brothers Son, about seven years old, to leave him for a pledg with the Arabians: But there met him some that were sent from Malchus,* 1.32 to command him to depart from the bounds of his Kingdom, for so the Parthians had required: Yet he pretended that he did it by the request of his Noble men, purposing to cozen him of that great treasure which his father Antipater had committed to his trust. Herod ta∣king this very heavily, turned aside into a certain Temple, where he had left many of his followers: but the next day, when he came to Rhinocorura he heard of his Brothers death.

Malchus, upon second thoughts, repenting of his ingratitude, sent in all hast after to Herod: but the Messengers could not overtake him: for he was gon far on his journey towards Pelusium,* 1.33 where the Marriners that were sai∣ling to Alexandria, refused to take him in. There, by the Magistrates of the City he was honourably intertained, and brought to Cleopatra, the Queen, who could not prevail with him to stay at that time, because he was hastening to Rome,* 1.34 though the Sea was very tempestuous, and as then the affairs in Italy were in no very good condition. As he sailed from Alexandria towards Pam∣philia; he met with a very great storm, which made him cast overboard much of his substance, and scarcely got he to Rhodes.

At Rhodes two of his greatest Friends met him,* 1.35 Sappinas, and Ptolomaeus, and finding that the City had suffered much in the War against Cassius, he could not be restrained, no not by his present poverty, but that he would do some∣thing for it, even beyond his ability: After which he caused a Frigot to be built, and embarking himself with his Friends in it, he arrived at Brundusi∣um in Italy,* 1.36 and fom thence went to Rome, declaring unto M. Anthony those things that had happened to himself and his Family, and that thorough many tempests, and dangers he had retired unto him, as his only refuge, in whom all his hope lay.

This Narration moved compassion in Anthony;* 1.37 remembring also his Fathers friendship towards him, but that which prevailed most, was the promise of a great sum of mony if he would help him to the Kingdom: Anthony also hated Antigonus as a man of a turbulent Spirit, and an enemy to the Romans. Caesar also partly for that Antipater [Herods Father] had been fellow Souldier with his Father in Aegypt,* 1.38 and for other curtesies which he had shewed him, and partly to gratifie Anthony, whom he saw to be well affected to Herod, was willing to promote his designs: whereupon the Senate being assem∣bled, Messala, and Atpatinus, brought in Herod, and after they had prais∣ed him, reckoning up the love, and services that both he, and his Father had done for the Romans, and accusing Antigonus both for former crimes, and for that newly he had received the Kingdom of the Jews from the Parthi∣ans in contempt of the Romans: and when Anthony also had declared to the Senate how much conducing it was to the Parthian War, then in hand, that Herod should be made King:* 1.39 Antigonus was declared an enemy, and the King∣ly Title was devolved upon Herod by their general suffrage.

Whilest these things were transacting at Rome, Ventidius, the Roman Ge∣neral easily recovered Palestine, Antigonus, the King thereof, being much afraid of him, and he exacted great sums of money from all men, but especially from Antigonus,* 1.40 who in Herods absence had besieged his Family in Massada,

which place, though it abounded with all other kinds of provision, yet it wanted water, so that Joseph, Herods Brother, who commanded in chief there, with two hundred of his Friends intented to flie to the Arabians; for that he heard that Malchus now repented him of his former ingratitude to∣wards Herod:* 1.41 But the very Night a great shore of Rain falling filled their Ci∣sterns, which made him change his purpose, and the next morning, making a gallant salley forth, they killed many of Antigonus his men.

Ventidius encamped near to Jerusalem, and drew from Antigonus a suffici∣ent sum of money, and to the intent that his fraudulent dealing should not be discovered, he left one Silo there, with part of his Forces under a pretence of helping Joseph, who also was to be seed by Antigonus, lest he should raise him some new troubles; which Antigonus submitted to, hoping that the Parthians would shortly come to his aid.

After the Senate was dismissed, Anthony, and Caesar went out, leading He∣rod between them, who also accompanied with the Consuls, and other Magistrates, and so they went all together up into the Capitol, to sacrifice to the Gods, and to place there the Decree of the Senate: and the New King, the first day of his Reign,* 1.42 was Feasted by Anthony, and within seven days after he was by Anthony dismissed out of Italy, honoured with this unexpected felicity.

Shortly after Anthony being to go to the Parthian War, had all his Acts, as well past as to come, confirmed by the Senate, whereupon he sent to some Kings by his own authority to pay certain Tributes to him,* 1.43 and he made Herod King both of the Idumaeans, and Samaritans.

Herod being returned out of Italy to Ptolemais, quickly gathered store of Souldiers, both of such as he hired, as also of his own Countrymen, passing through Galile against Antigonus: being aided by Silo, and Ventidius, who were commanded by Anthony to conduct him into his Kingdom; and as he went on, his Forces daily increased, and all Galile, except a few, sided with him.

As Herod was marching towards Massada, where he was necessarily to re∣lieve his Kindred, Joppa would not let him pass, wherefore he was to reduce it, lest he should leave so strong a place behind him in his passage to Jerusalem: which occasion Silo taking hold on (for he was not yet come to Herod) dislod∣ged his Army from about Jerusalem, whom the Jews pursued, but Herod meet∣ing him with a small party saved Silo,* 1.44 who fought very cowardly.

After he had taken Joppa,* 1.45 he hasted to Massada to raise the Siege, and his Army encreased daily, many of the Country people joyning with him: and having relieved his Friends in Massada,* 1.46 he hasted towards Jerusalem; and though Antigonus had laid ambushments for him in divers places, yet he drew near to the City, Silo following, and the Jews being terrified with his pow∣er. When he had encamped on the West side of the City, they upon the Walls shot at him with Darts and Arrows: others also sallying out in Troops, beat up some of his quarters. Then did Herod by an Herald proclaim round about the Walls, that he came for the publick good, and to preserve the City from ruin, and withal, he promised pardon for all former actings. On the other side Antigonus, directing his Speech to Silo, and the Romans, told them, that it was unjustly done of the Senate to give the Kingdom to Herod, a private man, and an Idumaean, and so but an half-Jew, whereas by custom it was to be given to one of the High-Priests line. His men also shooting valiantly from the Towers, drave the enemy from the Walls: and Silo (who was beforehand bribed by Antigonus) suborned some of his Souldiers to demand of Herod more provisions, and larger pay, and to be withdrawn into commodious Winter-quarters. The Army being thus troubled, and beginning to dislodg, Herod in∣treated the Captains, and Souldiers of Silo's Army, that they would not now forsake him, he being sent both by Anthony, Caesar, and the Senate, to take

possession of the Kingdom; and withal he sent into all the Country, and brought in such store of provisions, that there was no occasion for Silo, and his Army to complain. He commanded his Friends also that inhabited about Samaria, that they should bring to Jericho Corn, Wine, Oyl, Cattle, and other necessaries, that the Souldiers for the future might have plenty.

Antigonus having intelligence hereof, sent forth some to intercept the Vi∣ctualers: but Herod taking with him some Cohorts, viz. five of the Romans and as many of the Jews, with some forreign Souldiers, and a few Horse mix∣ed with them,* 1.47 flew out to Jericho, and found the City forsaken of the Inhabi∣tants, and five hundred Families of them were fled to the tops of the Hills, whom he took, and dismissed in safety: But the Romans entring the City, plun∣dered it, where they found all sorts of precious movables. Herod leaving a Gar∣rison there, returned to his Camp before Jerusalem, and then dismissed the Ro∣mans, sending them into Winter-quarters in Idumaea, Samaria, and Galile, which Countries were lately surrendred to them: But Antigonus by bribes obtained of Silo, that part of the Roman Army should he quartered in Lydda, currying there∣by favour with Anthony: and thus the Romans lived in plenty, and without bearing Arms.

But Herod could not be idle:* 1.48 For sending his Brother Joseph into Idumaea, with a thousand Foot, and four hundred Horse, himself went into Samaria, and there setled his Mother, and the rest of his kindred, whom he had drawn out of Mas∣sada: Then did he march into Galile, where he surprized some places which were yet held by Antigonus his Garrisons: and when he came to Sephorus in snowy weather, Antigonus his men fled away, and there he found great store of ne∣cessaries. From thence he sent a Troop of Horse, and three Companies of Foot against some Thieves that dwelt in Caves,* 1.49 not far from the Village Ar∣bela, by which means he kept them from doing mischief. Then he marched with his whole Army, whom the enemy met, and encountred resolutely, in∣so much as Herods left wing began to waver, till himself coming on with the main body, encouraged his own men to stand their ground, and caused the ene∣my to flee, whom he followed as far as Jordan: by which Victory he brought all Galile into his subjection,* 1.50 except those that dwelt in the Caves: and so giving to every one of his Souldiers a hundred and fifty Drachmes, and more to his Cap∣tains, he dismissed them into their Winter-quarters.

There came Silo to him with his Captains who had wintered with Antigo∣nus, and who now would maintain, them no longer, commanding the Inhabi∣tants thereabout to spoil the Country of all Victuals, and to retire to the moun∣tains that the Romans might perish through famine: But Herod committed the charge of provisions to his Brother Pheroras, and withal, commanded him to re∣build Alexandrium,* 1.51 who in a short time furnished the Souldiers with abundance of all necessaries, and built again Alexandrium that had formerly been dismantled.

Ventidius in Syria sent for Silo to assist him against the Parthians, but com∣manded him first to assist Herod, and to bring Herod, and the rest of the Auxi∣liaries of those Provinces along with him: But Herod sending Silo to him, went himself with his Souldiers against the Thieves that lived in Caves; and in the mean time made Ptolomy Governour of the Country, which fell out ill for him; for being set upon by those who had formerly disturbed the Country, he was slain by them,* 1.52 after which they retired into Fens, and inaccessible places, in∣festing with their inrodes, and robberies all the Country: But when Herod retur∣ned, he made them pay dear for their Thieveries: for some of them he killed, others flying to their fortified places he pursued,* 1.53 and having taken them, put them to death, and razed their strong holds, and sined the Cities in an hun∣dred Talents.

About this time Anthony commanded Ventidius to send Machaeras to aid He∣rod with two Legions, and a thousand Horse; but when he came, being

corrupted by Antigonus with money, he would needs go to him, against Herods mind, under a colour of observing his actions: but Antigonus suspecting him, denied him admittance, and drave him away with slings, whereby he found that Herod had given him good counsel, and blamed himself for not following of it: whereupon he retired to Emmaus,* 1.54 and in his march killed all the Jews that came to hand, without distinction of Friend or Foe, being provoked by Antigonus his dealing: At which cruelty Herod was much grieved, intending to go to Anthony, and saying, that he needed other manner of men than those who did him more hurt than his enemies, whereas of himself he was able to subdue Antigonus: but Machaeras overtaking him, intreated him to stay, or if he was resolved to go on, yet at least that he would leave with him his Bro∣ther Joseph, that with their united Forces they might make war upon Anti∣gonus. Thus, after much intreaty, he was reconciled to Machaeras, and so lea∣ving his brother Joseph with his Army, he commanded him in his absence, that he should not put all to the hazard of a Battel;* 1.55 but himself hasted to Anthony, whom he found besieging Samosata, a City near to the River Euphrates, and carried along with him some Auxiliaries both of Horse and Foot. Anthony entertained him very honourably, and much praised him for his valour.

Joseph, unmindful of his Brothers command, taking with him his own For∣ces, and five Roman Cohorts that were given him by Machaeras, went towards Jericho, purposing to reap the enemies Corn, now that it was ripe, and en∣camped in the mountains, because the Roman Cohorts were raw Souldiers, most of them being lately taken up in Syria: yet there he was circumvented by the enemy, in the midst of those fastnesses, and having lost six Cohorts, he himself valiantly fighting,* 1.56 was slain: Antigonus being in a rage, caused the dead body of Joseph to be whipped, though Pheroras, his Brother, offered fifty Talents to have redeemed it: After this loss, the Galileans revolting from their Governours, drowned those that were of Herods party in the Lake: In Idumaea also there were many innovations.

Anthony having made peace with his enemy, commanded Caius Sosius to as∣sist Herod against Antigonus, with two Cohorts: When Herod came to Daphne, the Suburbs of Antioch, he heard of his Brother Josephs deah, which caused him to hasten his journey, and coming to Mount Libanus, he took thence with him eight hundred men, and one Cohort of the Romans, and so came to Ptolemais,* 1.57 from whence in the night he passed with his Army through Galilee: Here his enemies met him, whom he overcame in fight, and forced them in∣to the Castle, from whence they had issued the day before: Them he assault∣ed, but was compelled to desist, by reason of the extremity of the weather, and to retreat into some neighbouring Villages: but upon the coming of ano∣ther Cohort from Anthony, they in the Castle were so affrighted, that they for∣sook the same by night: Herod then hastned to Jericho, purposing to revenge his Brothers death: and being come thither, he feasted his Nobles, and the feast being ended,* 1.58 and his guests dismissed, he retired into his chamber, and pre∣sently the room wherein they had supped, being now empty of company fell down without hurting any, which made many to think, that surely Herod was beloved of God, who had so miraculously preserved him.

The next day, six thousand of the enemies came down from the Mountains to fight with him, and their forlorn-hope with darts and stones so terrified the Romans, and some of Herods Souldiers, that they fled, and Herod himself recei∣ved a wound in his side.

Antigonus, desiring to have his strength seem greater than it was, sent one of his Captains, named Pappus, with some forces into Samaria, whilst himself went against Machaeras. In the mean time Herod took in five Towns, and therein put two thousand of the Garrison Souldiers to the sword; and setting

the Towns on fire, he went against Pappus, and was strengthened by many that came to him out of Jericho and Judea: yet was the enemy so confident, that he would joyn battel with him;* 1.59 but in fight, Herod overcame them; and being inflamed with a desire to revenge his Brothers death, he pursued them that fled, slew many of them, and followed them into a Village, and there slew many more of them, who retreated into houses, the rest fled: After which Victory, Herod had presently gone to Jerusalem, and put an end to the war, had not the sharpness of the Winter hindred him; for now Antigonus bethought himself to leave the City, and fly elsewhere for safety.

Herod in the evening,* 1.60 when he had dismissed his Friends to refresh them∣selves, as yet hot in his Armour, went into a chamber, attended with one only servant, to wash himself, wherein some of his enemies armed, whom fear had forced thither, were hidden; and whilst he was naked, and washing himself, first one, and then a second, and a third, ran out armed with naked swords in their hands, so astonished, that they were glad to save themselves, with∣out profering the least hurt to the King. The next day, Herod, amongst others, cut off Pappus his head, and sent it by way of revenge for his Brothers death,* 1.61 to his Brother Pheroras; for it was Pappus that with his own hand had slain Joseph.

Herod,* 1.62 in the beginning of the third year after he had been declared King at Rome, coming with an Army to Jerusalem, encamped near the City, and from thence removing to that place where the Walls were fittest to be assault∣ed, he pitched his Tents before the Temple, intending to attempt them, as Pompey had done in times past: and having encompassed the place with three Bulworks, by the help of many workmen he raised his batteries; fetching materials from all places thereabouts, and appointing fit men to oversee the work;* 1.63 and then himself went to Samaria to solemnize his Marriage with Ma∣riamne, the Daughter of Alexander, the Son of Aristobulus, who was formerly betrothed to him.

The Marriage ceremony being over, Sosius came with an Army of Horse and Foot, being sent by Anthony to the aid of Herod, and Herod also took a great party with him from Samaria to Jerusalem;* 1.64 so that the whole Army being come together, consisted of eleven Legions of Foot, and six thousand Horse, besides the Syrian Auxiliaries, which were very many, and so they pitched on the North-side of the City. Over this great Army were two Ge∣nerals, Sosius and Herod, who purposed to displace Antigonus, as an enemy to the people of Rome, and to establish Herod in the Kingdom, according to the Decree of the Senate.

The Jews being gathered together▪ out of the whole Countrey,* 1.65 and shut up within the Walls, made a valiant resistance, boasting much of the Temple of the Lord, and saying, that the Lord would not forsake his people in the time of danger. By secret sallies also they burnt up, and spoiled all provision with∣out the City both for Man and Horse, whereby the Besiegers began to be pinched: but Herod provided against their excursions, by placing ambush∣ments in convenient places, and sending parties to fetch in provision from afar off, so that in a short time the Army was well furnished with all ne∣cessaries.

By reason of the multitude of Workmen, the three bulworks were soon finished, it being Summer time, so that no untemperateness of weather hin∣dred them: and with his Engines Herod often battered the Walls, and left no∣thing unassayed: but the besieged fought valiantly, and were every way as active and subtile to make void his endeavours; often sallying forth, and firing their Works, both those that were finished, and others that were but begun, and coming to handistrokes with the Romans, they were nothing inferiour to them, but only in Martial skill.

The Sabbatical year now coming,* 1.66 brought a Famine upon the besieged Jews, notwithstanding which, they built a new Wall within that which was beaten down by the battering Rams, and so countermined the Enemies mines, that many times they came to Handystrokes under ground, and making use of despair instead of courage, they held it out unto the last, though Pollio, the Pharisee, and Samias his Disciple, advised them to receive Herod in∣to the City, saying, that they could not avoid his being their King by reason of their sins.

They held out the siege for five moneths space, though there was so great an Army before the City: but at length twenty of Herods choicest Soul∣diers got upon the Wall, and after them the Centurions of Sosius. So that the first Wall was taken on the forti'th day, and the second on the fiftieth, and some Galleries about the Temple were burnt down, which Herod charged (though falsly) upon Antigonus, thereby to bring him into hatred with the people. When the outward part of the Temple was taken, and the lower City, the Jews fled into the inward part of the Temple, and the upper City: and fearing lest they should be hindred from offering their daily Sacrifices unto God, they sent Ambassadours unto Herod, to desire leave, that such Beasts on∣ly might be brought in which were to be sacrificed: This request Herod easily granted, hoping that by this means they would leave their obstinacy, and sub∣mit to him. But perceiving that this courtesie prevailed not, and that they were still resolute to continue the Sovereignty in Antigonus, he gave a general assault and won the City,* 1.67 on the Kalends of January, on the se∣cond moneth, Cislu, being the day on which the Jews were wont to cele∣brate a Fast in commemoration of the holy Rowl that was burnt by Je∣hoiakim.

The City being taken by assault,* 1.68 all places were filled with murthers: the Romans being incensed against the Jews for holding out so long; and the Hero∣dian Jews endeavouring to extirpate the contrary faction; so that there were continual slaughters in the Porches and Houses; yea, the reverence of the Temple, not saving the suppliants: They spared neither age nor sex, nor so much as the little children: and though the Conquerour Herod besought, and intreated them to forbear, yet none would hear, or obey him, but as if they had been mad, they proceeded in their cruelty.

Antigonus coming down from the upper City, fell at Sosius his feet, who nothing pittying his miserable condition,* 1.69 insulting over him, calling him Madam Antigonuus, and withall cast him into prison, and set keepers a∣bout him.

And whereas a multitude of Strangers, that Herod had hired, came rushing in, not into the Temple only, but even into the Sanctuary, some he thought to restrain by intreaty, others by threats, and some by force, judging his Vi∣ctory worse than if he had been overthrown, if any of those things which were not lawful to be seen, were exposed to the view of the prophane multi∣tude. He restrained also the plundering of the City, as much as in him lay; intreating Sosius to do the like, asking, if the Romans would make him King of a Wilderness, the City being so wasted by rapines and murthers: Sosius an∣swered, that the Souldiers desired the plunder of the City, in regard of their hard service in the siege:* 1.70 To which Herod replied, that he would recompence every man out of his own Treasury; and making good his promise, he freed the City from further misery:* 1.71 For he bestowed gifts liberally upon the Soul∣diers, and proportionably upon the Commanders, and bountifully upon So∣sius: whereupon, Sosius offering a Crown of Gold unto GOD, withdrew out of the City, leading Antigonus a Prisoner along with him to Anthony.

Herod being thus setled in Jerusalem,* 1.72 he advanced those of his own faction, and daily put to death them of the contrary: Amongst whom, he slew all

those of the Sanhedrim, who had accused him of a capital crime, before he was King, sparing only Pollio the Pharisee, and Samias, his Disciple, whom he high∣ly honoured.

Then did he gather together all the Regal Ornaments, and much silver and gold, which he exacted from rich men, all which he gave to Anthony and his Souldiers. He put to death also forty and five of Antigonus his chief Noble men, setting watches at their doors, that none of them might be carried out under pretence of being dead: and what gold or silver soever was found, was all carried to Herod, so that there was no end of the peoples miseries, the cove∣tousness of the needy Conquerours consuming all their estates. The fields al∣so lay untilled, because it was the Sabbatical year, in which it was unlawful to sow the ground.

Of these miserable times,* 1.73 amongst others, were spectators, Zacharias the Priest, with his Wife Elizabeth: Of the relicts of Davids stock, Hely and Jo∣seph: Anna also the Prophetess of the Tribe of Aser, and Simeon the just, who received an answer from the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, till he had seen the Lord Christ. Luk. 2. 26.

Anthony being thus possessed of Antigonus, intended to keep him Prisoner to adorn his Triumph; but Herod feared, that if Antigonus was brought to Rome by Anthony, he might there contend with him before the Senate for the Kingdom: considering also how the Nation of the Jews hated him, and fa∣voured Antigonus; he thereupon gave great sums of money to Anthony, to cut off his head,* 1.74 which accordingly he did at Antioch: Antigonus being the first King that was thus put to death by the Romans: and in him ended the Princi∣pality of the Hasmonaeans: It being from the Captainship of Judas Maccabaeus to the death of Antigonus, an hundred twenty six years, and two or three mo∣neths; and by this means, Herod, a stranger, got the Kingdom, and was total∣ly freed from his fears.

Hyrcanus, (as we heard before) being carried Prisoner to Phraates King of the Parthians; he intreated him courteously for the Nobility of his Descent, and after a time,* 1.75 freeing him from Prison, he suffered him to live in Babylon, where were great store of Jews, who honoured him no less than as their King and High-Priest: and not only they of Babylon, but all the rest of the Nation of the Iews did the like; who in old time had been carried captive beyond the River Euphrates, by the Assyrians, of whom there were many millions. But Hyrcanus hearing that Herod was made King of the Iews, he began to cast his hopes that wayes, expecting favour from Herod, whose life he had saved, when he was called in question before the Sanhedrim. He consulted therefore with the Iews that came to visit him, about his return into Iudea, who by all means disswaded him from it, yet could they not prevail with him. Besides, Herod desired by all means to get the poor old man into his clutches,* 1.76 and thereupon wrote to him to get leave of Phraates and the Iews, that he might return, and that they would not envy him the joynt rule with his Son in Law, the time be∣ing now come, wherein he could requite the favours that Hyrcanus had shew∣ed him, in being his nourisher and preserver. He sent also his Ambassadour to Phraates with great Presents, intreating him that he would not hinder him from being thankful to him that had deserved so well of him. Hyrcanus being forward of himself, dismissed by the Parthians, and honourably furnished by the Iews for the expences of his journey, he came at last to Herod, who enter∣tained him with all honour, gave him the upper hand in all Assemblies, and the more honourable place at all Feasts, calling him Father, hereby to delude him, lest he should suspect any treachery.

Herod providing that none of the Nobility should be created High-Priest,* 1.77 sent to Babylon for a Priest of base Parentage, whom formerly he had been ac∣quainted with, of the race of those Priests that had been carried away beyond

Euphrates, whose name was Ananelius, or Hananeel, and to him he gave the High-Priesthood.

This Alexandra the Daughter of Hyrcanus,* 1.78 the Wife of Alexander, the Son of Aristobulus, and Mother-in-Law of Herod, took in ill part; for that Aristobulus her Son, and Brother of Mariamne, was neglected, and another from a strange place should be made High-Priest: whereupon she wrote to Cleopatra Queen of Egypt, and Anthonies darling, that she would procure the High-Priesthood of Anthony for her Son. Cleopatra neglected her request; but shortly after, Dellius, a friend of Anthonies, coming into Iudea, perswaded her to send the Pictures of her Son Aristobulus, and of her Daughter Mariamne to Anthony, who then would deny her nothing: This she assented to, and sent them by Dellius, who told Anthony, that they seemed rather to be of a Divine, than of a hu∣mane race.

Anthony was much inflamed herewith,* 1.79 yet thought it undecent to send for a Lady that was married to Herod, shunning also the jealousie of Cleopatra: whereupon he wrote to Alexandra, to send her Son to him, under some ho∣nest pretence: But these things coming to the ears of Herod, he thought it not safe that Aristobulus, now in the flower of his age, being but sixteen, should be sent to Anthony, the most potent man amongst the Romans, and very much given to his Lusts. Wherefore he wrote back, that if the youth did but step out of the Kingdom, all the Country would be up in Arms; the Iews ho∣ping for some innovations under a new King, and by this means he satisfied Anthony.

Herod being continually molested with the intreaties of his Wife Mariam∣ne, that he would give the High-Priesthood to her Brother Aristobulus, it be∣ing his right, he called a Council of his Friends, to whom he inveighed a∣gainst his Mother-in-Law Alexandra, as if she had privately wrought Trea∣son against his Kingdom, and had endeavoured by Cleopatra's means to translate it to young Aristobulus; yet, lest he should seem to neglect both his piety to her,* 1.80 and the rest of that Kindred, he told them, he would now restore the Priesthood to her Son, which hitherto Ananelius had supplied, by reason of the young mans tender years: Alexandra being herewith overjoyed, and withall grieved that she was suspected, fell a weeping, clear∣ing her self of those accusations, and gave him many thanks for her Sons ho∣nour, promising that hereafter she would be most obedient unto him. And thus Herod, in the life-time of Ananelius, gave the High-Priesthood to Aristobu∣lus, being then but seventeen years old.

Yet Herod,* 1.81 fearing lest his Mother-in-Law Alexandra should seek occasion to raise new troubles, confined her to the Palace, and commanded her to do nothing by her own authority: yea, he set so strict a guard over her, that no∣thing was concealed from him of all she did, to the very expences of her Ta∣ble. This she took very heavily,* 1.82 and wrote to Cleopatra, complaining of her hard condition, and desired her to yield her assistance: Cleopatra advised her with her Son to fly to her into Egypt, which she liked, and therefore provided two Coffins, the one for her self, the other for her Son, commanding her ser∣vants, that were privy to the plot, to carry them out by night, and to con∣vey them to a ship that was ready prepared to carry them into Egypt. This business Aesopus, one of her servants, blabbed to Sabbation, a friend of Alex∣anders, supposing that he had known all before? which, as soon as Sabbation knew, though hitherto he was an enenmy of Herods, as being suspected to have been in the plot of poysoning his Father Antipater, he took this occasion of being reconciled to the King,* 1.83 by discovering the matter, He∣rod being thus informed of the plot, dissembled the matter till it was in execution, and then surprized her in her flight, and brought her back: Yet did he pardon her fault, not indeed daring to punish her, lest thereby he

should discontent Cleopatra, that was willing to take any occasion against him: wherefore, under a colour of a magnanimous spirit, he made shew as if he par∣doned her out of meer clemency.

The Feast of Tabernacles being now come, the new High-Priest Aristo∣bulus, being just past seventeen years old, was to offer Sacrifice according to the Law, and being clad in his Pontifical attire, he came to the Altar, and performed the Ceremony with all Decency, whose excellent beauty and stature, being higher than was usual for his age, and carrying in his countenance the honour of his Lineage,* 1.84 drew the eyes, and love of all the multitude upon him; every one calling to mind the worthy and memorable actions of his Grand-father Aristobulus; and therefore, as overcome with affe∣ctions towards him, they were so over-joyed, that they could not contain themselves, but openly prayed for him, and wished him all joy, and that more freely than was meet in those jealous times, under such a King, proclaim∣ing openly, both the memory, and thanks they owed to the Family, for all the benefits they had received from it.

As soon as the Feast was ended, Aristobulus was entertained at a Banquet by his Mother Alexandra: Herod also pretended favour to him, and enticed him into a convenient place to sport with him after the manner of young men, and when they were hot and weary, and left their sport, they walked out to the Fish-ponds, which were near the Court, to take the fresh air, where also they beheld some of the servants that were swimming: At last, by the perswasion of Herod, Aristobulus undrest himself, and went in amongst them: Then they, who were suborned by Herod, as it were in sport and jest, ducked him as he was swimming, holding him under water, and never left off till they had drowned him.* 1.85 This was the end of Aristobulus, in the eighteenth year of his age, and in the first year of his High-Priesthood, which immediate∣ly returned to Ananelus.

The report of these things coming to the Women, they were all on an uprore, and did nothing but weep, and howl over the body of the young man: Yea, sorrow overspread the whole City, every one bewailing the ca∣lamity, as if it had been his own: But Herod endeavoured by all means to make the people believe, as if it had faln out by chance, without his privity, not only feigning sorrow,* 1.86 but tears and grief also: and that he might the more comfort the Women, he buried the body in a most magnificent manner, be∣ing liberal in prodigality, in adorning his Monument, and in perfumes, and other precious things.

But his Mother Alexandra knowing the Treason, though she was oft ready to lay violent hands upon her self, yet repressed her passion, seeming not to be suspicious, till an opportunity of revenge might offer it self.

And shortly after,* 1.87 she wrote to Cleopatra of the treachery of Herod, and of the lamentable death of her Son. Cleopatra pitying her misfortune, took a particular care of this business, as if it had been her own, and never rest∣ed from perswading Anthony to revenge the young mans death; telling him that it was an unpardonable crime, that he, who by his help, enjoy∣ed a Kingdom that was anothers right, should rage so insolently against the Family of the lawful Kings. Anthony being prevailed with hereby, when he came to Laodicea in Syria, sent for Herod to come before him, to answer what should be objected against him about the death of Aristobulus.

Herod,* 1.88 during the time of his absence, committed the care of his King∣dom to his Unkle Ioseph, privately commanding him, that if Anthony should do him any mischief, he should presently put his Wife Mariamne to death; pretending that he so loved her, that he should esteem it a great wrong, if any but himself should enjoy her beauty, yea, though it was after his Death.

When Herod came to Anthony, he so appeased him with rich Presents, that he brought on purpose with him from Ierusalem,* 1.89 and by his frequent con∣ferences with him, that afterwards Cleopatra's instigations prevailed little: For Anthony said, that it was not fit that a King should be accountable for his actions, otherwise he would cease to be a King: For having once given him the honour, the free exercise of his Kingly power was to be admitted unto him. He told Cleopatra also, that it was not fit for her too much to meddle with other mens matters.

During Herods absence, Ioseph Governing the Kingdom, he had occasion many times to converse with Mariamne, partly upon business, and partly to do her honour; and in their discourses there was often mention made how much Herod loved her, which discourse was laughed at by the Ladies, especially by Alexandra; But he was carried on with such a desire of provoking the Kings love to them, that he told them what private command the King had given him, supposing this was an infallible argument of his love, because he could neither endure to live without her, nor in death to be disjoyned from her: but the Ladies were not of his mind, rather abhorring the Tyranny of Herod, who, though he were dead, yet would he seek their lives.

Presently after, a rumour was spread about the City, that Anthony had put Herod to death, which much troubled all the Court, especially the Ladies: whereupon Alexandra perswaded Ioseph, that, taking them along with him, he should fly to the Roman Legions that lay before the City, under the command of the Tribune Iulius, so that if any trouble arose in the City, they might be secured by the Romans; adding, that she hoped if Mariamne came but once to the sight of Anthony, she might obtain any thing of him, yea, even the Kingdom, with whatsoever belonged to the Royal Family.

Whilst these things were under debate, there came Letters from Herod, which dashed all, signifying how Anthony had honoured him, both in the pub∣lick Assemblies, and inviting him to his Feasts, and that, during the accusa∣tions of Cleopatra: so that he feared her not for the time to come, but hoped shortly to return to them, Anthony having given Coelosyria unto Cleopatra in∣stead of Iudea, upon condition that she should not hereafter demand Iudea, nor trouble him any further about that business.

As soon as these Letters were received, the speech about flying to the Ro∣mans vanished,* 1.90 but yet their debate about it was not hid: For as soon as Herod had brought Anthony part of his way against the Parthians, he returned into Iudea, and immediately his Sister Salome, and his Mother Cyprus told him what Alexandra's counsel was; neither was she herewith contented, but she accused her Husband Ioseph, as if he had been too familiar with Mariamne: and this she did out of an old grudge, because the Queen (a woman of an high spirit) in their womanly brabbles, had upbraided her with her obscure birth.

Mariamne by her Oath assured Herod of her chastity, who told her again, how much he loved her; but she replied, that it was not the part of a lover, to command that if he died, she should be put to death also. Herod judging that this secret could never be known, except she had committed adultery with Ioseph, had much ado to refrain from killing her immediately: but love overcoming his passion,* 1.91 he refrained; yed did he command Ioseph to be put to death, without suffering him to plead for himself, Alexandra also he cast into prison, as the cause of all these evils.

Cleopatra having brought Anthony part of his way towards Parthia, returned towards Egypt, and by the way, was entertained by Herod, who assured unto her that part of Arabia which was granted unto her by Anthony, to which he added the revenues of Iericho, where are great store of the best Date Trees, and where Balsom grows,* 1.92 which being a precious Oyntment only grows there, in two Gardens, both which are the Kings, the one of twenty acres, the other of less.

By this means Herod grew into great familiarity with Cleopatra, who sought to allure him to her Lust, either through her great intemperance, or because she sought by this means to betray him; but though she pretended love to him, yet Herod refused, and held a consultation with his Friends about kil∣ling her, who disswaded him from it, and therefore having appeased her by great Presents, and all manner of obsequiousness, he accompanied her as far as Pelusium: yet fearing both her, and the People of the Jews, he reserved the Castle as a refuge for himself, laying in as many Arms there, as were sufficient for ten thousand men.

Herod payed duely to Cleopatra the Tributes of Judea and Arabia, which An∣thony had given to her, not thinking it safe to give her any occasion of disgust against him.

Herod being now free from troubles, and having taken Hyrcanium, a Town which hitherto a Sister of Antigonus had kept, the Actian War brake forth, between Augustus Caesar and Mark Anthony,* 1.93 whereupon Herod made great preparation for the assisting of Anthony, but he freed him from the trouble, telling him that he needed them not, and so dismissing him, Herod returned home with a well-furnished Army, wherewith he invaded Arabia, going as far as Diospolis, at which place the Arabians met him, and after a fierce conflict, the Jews got the Victory.

After this, Herod made many inrodes into Arabia, in the seventh year of his Reign, after the death of Antigonus, at which time the Actian War being begun,* 1.94 Judea was shaken with such an Earthquake as never was the like be∣fore, in which ten thousand men were overwhelmed, by the ruins of the hou∣ses, yet the Souldiers received no dammage, because they lay in the open fields. This being much aggravated by report, so emboldened the Arabians, that they laid hold on the Ambassadours of the Iews, who, in this their affliction came to demand peace, and slew them, and presently prepared for War with all earnestness.

Herod hearing hereof, encouraged his men, offered Sacrifice according to the custome, and so in all haste marched with his Army over Iordan, and having incamped at Philadelphia, there the fight began, about the taking of a Castle that lay between him and the Arabians,* 1.95 in which the Iews got the better, and after continual skirmishes, forced the Arabians to flight, who in their haste, treading upon one another, they lost in all five thousand men: the rest were besieged in their Camp, and extreamly wanting water, they sent Ambassa∣dours to Herod, who would not admit of them, and was more eager upon them, for offering but fifty Talents for their freedom: They being parched with continual thirst, came out of their Camp by great companies, offering themselves to the Iews, by which means they took five thousand of them in five dayes; and at last, the rest in the Camp came out to fight; but despairing of any good success, there fell of them in the first conflict about seven thou∣sand more. By this overthrow the courage of the Arabians was tamed, and Herod was declared Governour of that Nation, and so returned home with great Glory.

The Actian War being finished, wherein Caesar finally overthrew Anthony, Alexandra hoped that Herod should be severely punished by Caesar,* 1.96 for assisting Anthony against him; whereupon she sollicited her Father Hyrcanus, not any longer to suffer the affliction of their Family, but rather to reserve himself for better times: For which end she advised him to seek for protection and en∣tertainment of Malchus the King of Arabia. These sollicitations her Father at first repulsed, but at last being overcome by her Womanish importunity, he sent Letters to Malchus, by one Dositheus a Friend of his, desiring him to send some Horsemen to convey him to the Lake Asphaltitis, which is distant from Ierusalem about three hundred furlongs. This Dositheus was Kinsman

to Joseph, whom Herod had put to death, yet, to curry favour with the King, he shewed him the Letters: Herod thanked him, and withal desired one cur∣tesie more, that he would seal up the Letters, and give them to Malchus, and bring his answer to him. This he did, and the Arabian sent back word, that he was ready to entertain Hyrcanus and his Family, and all the Jews that were of his Party, and that he would send a band of Souldiers to conduct them in safety, who should be obedient to Hyrcanus in all things. Herod ha∣ving received this answer, called Hyrcanus and asked him if he had any confederacy with Malchus? who denying it, he produced the Letters in the Councel of the Sanhedrim, and commaded him to be put to death.

Herod having thus dispatched Hyrcanus,* 1.97 resolved to post unto Caesar, and expecting no good from him, because of his great Friendship to Anthony, he was very jealous of Alexandra, lest, taking this opportunity, she should stir up the people to rebel, and so fill the Kingdom with domestical seditions. Wherefore committing the care of his Kingdom to his Brother Pheroras, he left his Mother Cyprus, and his Sister Salome, and all his kindred in the strong Castle of Massada: And commanded his Brother, that if any thing befel him otherwise than well, he should retain the Government of the Kingdom in his own hands: and because his Wife Mariamne, by reason of some diffe∣rences, could not live with his Mother, he placed her with her Mother Alexandra in Alexandrion, committing the custody of them to his Treasu∣rer Joseph, and to Sohemus, an Iturian, under a colour of doing them honour, but yet he gave them this command,* 1.98 that if they should certainly know that any sinister hap befel him, they should presently put both the Ladies to death, and to the uttermost of their power, keep the Kingdom for his Children, and his Brother Pheroras.

Herod having thus setled his affairs at home, posted to Rhodes to meet with Caesar there, whither when he was come, laying only his Crown aside, but retaining other his Princely Ornaments, he was admitted into Caesars presence, where, with great constancy, and magnanimity of Spirit, he free∣ly confessed the love he bore to Anthony, as also the supplies he had sent him of Corn, and Money: adding moreover that he was ready with the same Faith to keep Friendship with Caesar.* 1.99 This Caesar exhorted him to, and restoring his Crown to him, exceedingly honoured him. Thus beyond all expectation, is Herod again confirmed in his Kingdom, both by the free gift of Caesar, and also by a Decree of the Senate, which Caesar procured for him: and Herod gave great Presents both to Caesar himself, and to all his Friends about him, even above his ability, to shew the greatness of his mind.

During his absence,* 1.100 his Wife Mariamne, and his Mother Alexandra, took it very ill that they were shut up in that Castle as in a Prison, so that they could neither enjoy their own, nor make use of other mens goods: especially when by their feminine flatteries they had fished out of Sohemus, what Herod had commanded concerning them: She then began to wish that he might never return home, supposing that she should live a most intollera∣ble life with him: all which she afterwards dissembled not, but openly confessed what it was that did afflict her. For Herod returning beyond all expectation, and relating to Mariamne what successes he had, she seemed not to regard them, and at all the carasses that he made her, she would sigh, so that Herod plainly perceived the hatred of his Wife against him, insomuch that himself was wavering between love, and hatred towards her.

Not long after Caesar passing through Syria towards Egypt,* 1.101 Herod inter∣tained him with all Royal magnificence at Ptolemais, and shewed all hospi∣tality

towards his Army, giving them plenty of all sorts of Victuals, by which means he was counted one of Caesars chiefest Friends, and used to ride about with him when he mustred his Army. He presented him also and his Friends with a hundred and fifty Men, all clad in most sumptuous, and rich apparel, yea, he suffered them to want nothing in their march to Pelusium, through barren places, and such as wanted water, yet did he provide plentifully for them, with which the Souldiers were much de∣lighted. He also presented Caesar with eight hundred Talents: yea, he gave such satisfaction to all, that they confessed that it was greater than the Kingdom could afford.

Herod wavering between love and hatred towards his Wife Mariamne,* 1.102 was continually incensed against her by the false accusations of his Sister Salome, and his Mother Cypros, who laboured to kindle his hatred and jea∣lousie against her: whereupon, probably he had proceeded rigorously with her, but that news came seasonably that Anthony and Cleopatra were both dead,* 1.103 and that Caesar had won Egypt, and was coming back, whom in all hast he went to meet, and so left his Family as it was. At his departure he commended Sohemus to Mariamne, professing that he owed him much re∣spect for the care he had had of her: and gave to him also the Government of a part of Iudea.

Herod meeting with Caesar before he was come out of Egypt,* 1.104 in confi∣dence of his Friendship, spake freely to him, and was highly honoured by him: For he bestowed upon him the four hundred Galatians, who were formerly of Cleopatra's Guard, to be his Guard, and restored to him that part of his Country which Cleopatra had seized upon, and added to his King∣dom Gadara, and Hippon, and Samaria; and by the Sea-side, Gaza, and An∣thedon, and Ioppa, and the Tower of Straton, which added much splendour to his Kingdom.

In Caesars return through Syria, Herod conducted him as far as Antioch. At his return,* 1.105 for the space of a whole year, suspicions increased daily be∣tween him and his Wife Mariamne, she neglecting his carasses, and oft up∣braiding him either with the death of her Grand-father Hyrcanus, or her Father Aristobulus, so that Herod could scarce refrain from striking her, and Salome by the noise, perceiving that Herod was much moved, she sent in the Butler, whom long before she had suborned for that end, who told Herod that he was solicited by Mariamne to deliver him a love potion, which he had by him, but what it was he knew not. Herod hereupon exa∣mined the most faithful servant of Mariamne by torture, being assured that she would attempt nothing without his privity, who not enduring the tor∣ments, confessed that she was offended for something that Sohemus had de∣clared unto her, which when the King heard, he cryed out, that Sohemus had declared unto her, which when the King heard, he cryed out, that Sohemus, who had ever been most faithful both to him, and the Kingdom, would never have spoken of these things, had there not been some more secret familiarity between them than was fitting; and thereupon he com∣manded Sohemus to be apprehended and put to death; and having called his Friends to Counsel, he accused his Wife for practising to poyson him, which he so aggravated, that all that were present perceived that he had a mind that she should be condemned,* 1.106 which was accordingly done by the general consent of them all: and whereas they thought that the execu∣tion should not be over speedy, but rather that she should be secured in some of the Kings Castles, Salome exceedingly urged the King that she should presently be put to death, for fear lest there should be some commotion a∣mong the People she being alive and in Prison: and thus was Mariamne brought to her death.

When her Mother Alexandra saw her going to execution, and consi∣dered that she must look for the same at Herods hands, that she might not seem to be guilty of the same crime, she began to upbraid her Daughter as being wicked and ingrateful towards her Husband,* 1.107 saying, that she de∣served death who durst attempt so hainous an act. Whilst she counterfeited these things, and made as if she would have pulled her Daughter by the hair, they that were present condemned her hypocrisie; but she that was led to death returned her no answer, but refelled the false accusation, with a resolute countenance,* 1.108 and mind, and underwent her death without fear.

She being dead,* 1.109 Herod began to be more inflamed with love towards her, often calling upon her Name, and lamenting her death beyond de∣cency; and although he sought to divert his grief by pleasures, feastings, and drinking, yet all availed nothing. Whereupon he cast off the care of his Kingdom, and so far gave up himself to sorrow, that he would bid his Servants call Mariamne, as though she were yet living.

As Herod was thus tormenting himself,* 1.110 there came a great Plague, which swept away a great part both of the Nobility, and Commons, every one judging that this Plague was sent by God for the unjust death of the Queen. The Kings discontents being increased hereby, he at last hid him∣self in a solitary Wilderness under a pretence of hunting;* 1.111 where still afflict∣ing himself, he fell into a great sickness, which was accompanied with an inflammation and great pain in his Neck, so that he began to rave; nei∣ther could any applications ease him, but rather made the disease more painful, so that those about him began to despair of his life: and his Physicians, partly because of the stubborness of the disease, and partly be∣cause in so great danger there was not any free election of diet, they gave him leave to eat whatsoever he would.

Herod lying thus sick in Samaria,* 1.112 and Alexandra being at Jerusalem, she endeavoured to get the two Castles of the City into her hands, the one adjoyn∣ing to the Temple, the other situate in the City: For which end she sol∣licited the Governours of them to deliver them up unto her, and to the Children of her and Mariamne, lest that Herod being dead, they should be seized upon by others: But they who had ever been faithful to Herod, were now much more diligent in their Office, both out of an hatred of A∣lexandra, and because they thought it a great offence to despair of the recovery of their Prince. Hereupon they presently sent Messengers to Herod, to ac∣quaint him with Alexandra's attempt, who thereupon commanded her to be slain. At length overcoming his disease, he recovered his strength both of body and mind,* 1.113 but grew so cruel, that upon the least occasion he was ready to put any one to Death.

Salome,* 1.114 Herods Sister, having been married to Cossaborus an Idumean, a difference now arising betwixt them, she, contrary to the custom of the Iews, sent him a Bill of Divorce, and came away to her Brother Herod, telling him that she preferred his love before her tye to her Husband: the reason which she pretended was, that Cossaborus had practised some innovations with Lysima∣chus, Antipater, and Dositheus, confirming it from this, because he had pri∣vily kept in his Country the Children of Bebas, now for the space of twelve years from Herods taking of Ierusalem:* 1.115 As soon as Herod heard this, he sent some to their hiding places, and killed them, with many others, to the intent that none should remain of the kindred of Hyrcanus: He also took out of the way all such as excelled in any dignity, that he might do whatsoever seemed him good, there being none to resist him.

Herod by these practises growing more secure, he began to degenerate more and more from his Country fashions, violating them by forreign inventions.

For first he instituted Wrestlings every fifth year in the honour of Caesar,* 1.116 for the exhibiting of which, he began to build a Theatre in Ierusalem, and an Amphitheatre in the plain, both of them very sumptuous for the Work∣manship, but clean contrary to the Iewish customs: Yea he would have this solemnity to be inrolled, and to be proclaimed in the neighbouring Coun∣tries, and to remoter Nations, and by propounding greater rewards, he in∣vited, not only those those were skilful Wrestlers, but also excellent Musicians, and such as Played on several Instruments. Yet that which above all troubled the Iews, were the Trophees, which being covered with Armour, they thought to be Images, forbidden by their Law; but Herod to satisfie them, commanded the Armour to be taken off, and shewed them that they were meer stocks of Wood, whereupon all their anger was turned into laughter.

Herod having many ways provoked the Jews,* 1.117 ten Citizens of Jerusalem made a Conspiracy against him, amongst whom one was blind, who made one, not because he could do any thing, but to shew how ready he was to suffer with those that defended their Country rights: Herod had ap∣pointed secret spies to discover such plots, one of which had fished this matter out, and acquainted Herod with it, who caused them to be appre∣hended, and when they were brought before him, with undaunted countenan∣ces they drew out their Weapons from under their Garments, protesting, that, not out of any private respect, but in the behalf of the publick weal, they had undertaken this conspiracy.* 1.118 Then were they led away, and put to death with all manner of tortures. Not long after, their accuser being hated of all men, was slain by some, and being cut in pieces, was thrown to the Dogs. Yet were the authors hereof concealed, till after long, and wearisome inquisitions, it was by torture wrung out from some silly Wo∣men who were privy to it.* 1.119 When Herod had thus found out the Au∣thors, he punished them with death, and their whole Families.

Herod the better to secure himself from the seditions of the tumultuous people,* 1.120 in the thirteenth year of his Reign, began to fortifie Samaria, which was a days journey from Jerusalem, and called it Sebaste (or Angusta,) The circuit of it was twenty furlongs, in the midst whereof he built a Tem∣ple of a furlong and an half, which he wonderfully adorned, and so order∣ed, that many of the Souldiers, and of the neighbouring Nations came and dwelt there.

Herod also built another Cidadel to be as a bridle to the whole Nation, namely the Tower of Straton:* 1.121 Also in the great plain he built a Castle, and chose of his Horsemen by lot, to keep it. Another he built in Galile, and one in Peraea: which Castles being so conveniently disposed in several parts of the Country, took away from the people all opportunity of rebellion.

About this time very grievous calamities befel the Nation of the Jews.* 1.122 First there was a long Drought, after which followed a Famine: After the Famine, by reason of their ill diet, there came divers Sicknesses, and the Plague; and Herod, having not wherewithal to supply the publick wants, was forced to melt the Gold and Silver that was in his Pallace,* 1.123 not sparing any thing for the curiosity of the Workmanship: no not so much as the Vessels which were for his own daily use. These being turned into money, he sent to buy provisions into Aegypt, where Petronius was Governour under Caesar, who though he was pestered with multitudes that repaired to him up∣on the like necessity, yet being Herods Friend, he gave his Servants leave to export Corn, and was assisting to them, both in the buying, and car∣riage of it.

When the Corn was brought to Herod, he was very careful to see it

divided, first to such as had most need, and then because there were many who by reason of old age, or some other weakness, were unable to dress it themselves, he appointed them certain Bakers to provide their food for them: By this means he procured the good will of the people, and the praise of a prudent and provident Prince.

He provided also for his Subjects against the sharpness of the Winter, taking care that none should want clothing, their Cattel being dead, and Wool, and other materials failing. And when he had made pro∣vision for his own People,* 1.124 he took care also for the neighbouring Cities of the Syrians, to whom he allowed Seed for sowing of their ground: and the Castles, and Cities; and those of the common People, who had great Families, coming to him for succour, he found a remedy for them also: Insomuch that he gave to those that were not his Subjects ten thousand Cores of Corn, each Core containing ten Atheni∣an bushels.

As soon as the Corn was ripe for harvest, Herod dismissed fifty thousand Men, whom he had fed in the time of Famine, into their own Countries: by which diligence he restored the almost ruined estate of his own Sub∣jects, and did not a little relieve his Neighbours, who groaned under the same calamities.

At the same time also he sent aid to Caesar.* 1.125 to wit, five hundred chosen Men of his own Guard, whom Aelius Gallus led into the Arabian Wars, where they did most excellent service.

Herod also built himself a Pallace in Sidon,* 1.126 in which he built two very large and stately Houses, with which the Temple it self could in no wise compare, and called one of them by the name of Caesar, and the other by the name of Agrippa.

Herod having removed from the Priesthood Jesus the Son of Phales,* 1.127 made Simon (a Priest of Jerusalem; the Son of Boethus of Alexandria) Priest in his room, and took also his Daughter Mariamne to Wife, that was the most beau∣tiful Virgin of that age.

The marriage solemnities being over,* 1.128 he began to build another new Pal∣lace, unto which he adjoyned a Town, which he called Herodian, in a place distant from Jerusalem, about sixty furlongs towards Arabia, in the place where he had overcome the Jews when he was thrust out by the Arms of Antigonus.

He built also Sebaste,* 1.129 and having finished that, he began to build another most magnificent City in a place by the Sea-side, where Straton stood, which he called Caesaria, and added to it an Haven of admirable work, equal in big∣ness to the Haven Piraetus: all which he finished in twelve years space, sparing neither labour nor cost about them.

Then did he send his two Sons,* 1.130 Alexander, and Aristobulus, (whom he had by Mariamne the Asmonaean) to Rome to Caesar, to be there educated under him, for whom Lodgings were prepared at the House of Pollio, Herods great Friend. Caesar intertained the young men very courteously, and gave Herod power to make which of his Sons he pleased the heir of his Kingdom:* 1.131 he added also to his Government Trachonitis, Batunaea, and Auranitis.

When Herod had received Trachonitis, he took guides, and went to the Den of the Thieves,* 1.132 restraining their Villanies, whereby the people lived in quiet: But Zenodorus, the former Governour, being moved, partly thorough envy, and partly with the loss of his Government, went to Rome, to accuse Herod, but could effect nothing.

About this time Herod went to Mytelene,* 1.133 to salute his chiefest Friend Agrippa, and so returned into Judaea: and presently after some Citizens of Gadara went to Agrippa to accuse Herod, whom he vouchsafed not so much as to hear, but sent them bound to Herod: Yet did he spare them: for though

he was inexorable towards his own People, yet did he willingly contemn, and forgive injuries received from strangers.

Zenodorus had solemnly sworn to the Gadarens, that he would do his ut∣most with Caesar to get them freed from the jurisdiction of Herod, and to be annexed to the Province of Caesar: Many of themselves also exclaimed against Herod,* 1.134 calling him cruel Tyrant, complaining to Caesar of his violence and rapines, and for rasing, and robbing their Temple: Yet was Herod nothing herewith terrified, being ready to answer for himself: But Caesar used him curteously, and was nothing alienated from him for all these tumultuous complaints: The Gadarens therefore perceiving the inclination of Caesar and his Friends towards Herod, despairing of good success, and fearing to be delivered into Herods hands, some of them cut their own Throats, others fearing torments brake their own Necks, or drow∣ned themselves in the River, and thus, seeming to forejudg themselves, Caesar absolved Herod from all their accusations.

Zenodorus also having his bowels burst, through much blood that came from him, ended his life at Antioch in Syria; whereupon Augustus Caesar gave his Tetrarchy to Herod: he made him also one of the Governours of Syria,* 1.135 commanding the rest of the Governours of that Province, to do no∣thing without his advice.

Herod bestowed upon his Brother Pheroras a hundred Talents out of the re∣venues of his Kingdom, and begged a Tetrarchy for him of Caesar, to the intent that if himself should happen to die, Pheroras estate might be se∣cure, and not subject to Herods Children.

Caesar coming into the East, having setled his affairs there, Herod con∣ducted him to the Sea-side, and so returned into his own Kingdom, where he built a goodly Temple in honour of Caesar,* 1.136 all of white Marble, near to Panion, at the foot of which mountain were the spring-heads of Jor∣dan: He also remitted to his Subjects some part of their Tribute, under pretence that he would ease them after the great dearth, but indeed to appease the minds of his Subjects, who were offended at his vast works, which seemed to tend to the destruction of Religion and good manners, as was commonly talked. As also to prevent these reports, he forbad all private meetings in the City,* 1.137 and to frequent Feastings: He had spies al∣so who would mingle themselves in all Companies, and mark what Peo∣ple said: yea himself would go about in the Night in the habit of a private Person, and mingle himself in the company of People to hear what they thought of him: and such as peremptorily disliked his do∣ings, he would punish without all mercy: the rest of the multitude he bound to him by Oath, requiring that they should not depart from their fidelity, and duty: Yea he required this Oath of many of the Pharisees, as of Pollio, and Sameas, &c. which though he could not get them to take, yet did he not punish them as he did others, in regard of that respect that he bore to Pollio: Neither did he impose it upon the Esseans, whom he much esteemed for one Manaherus sake, who was a Prophet, and when Herod was but a Boy, he saluted him King of the Jews, and foretold that he should Reign above thirty years.

Herod in the eighteenth year of his Reign, propounded to the Jews his building the Temple at Je∣rusalem,* 1.138 whom when he saw troubled least, when he had pulled down the old, he should not be able to finish a new one, he told them, that the old Temple should remain whole as it was, till all the materials necessary for the new Fabrick, should be fully prepared: neither did he deceive them for he provided a thou∣sand Wagons to carry stones, and he chose out of all the Artificers ten

thousand that were the most exquisite Work-men, and a thousand Priests, clothed in their Priestly Garments at his cost, who were not altogether ignorant of the Masons, and Carpenters Art, to oversee them.

All necessary materials for this stately work being provided in the space of two years, Herod began to build the Temple at Jerusalem, forty six years before the first Passover of the Ministry of Christ and therefore that Text, Joh. 11. 20. should be thus translated, This Temple hath been built forty six years hitherto: So the learned Primate of Ireland, and our Coun∣try-man Lydiat, read it.

Indeed the building of the Temple under Zorobabel began in the first year of the Monarchy of Cyrus, and after some interruptions, was finished in twenty years space, viz. in the sixth year of Darius Hystaspes: but the mag∣nificent building of it,* 1.139 begun by Herod at this time was finished in nine years space and an half: and truly the riches of Herod alone, were not sufficient to perfect so magnificent a structure, but all the holy treasures of many ages, that were sent to them from all the parts of the World to Jerusalem, were spent about it.

Not long after Herod set sail for Italy,* 1.140 to salute Caesar, and to see his Chil∣dren at Rome, and as he passed through Greece, he was, not only present at, but Judg of the Olympick exercises, where, observing that they did not answer the resort that was to them, through the poverty of the Elienses, he bestowed towards them a yearly revenew, that so their Sacrifices might be made the more splendid, as also other things that tended to the gracing of so great a meeting:* 1.141 For which bounty he was declared perpetual Judg of those exercises.

When he came to Rome, Caesar intertained him courteously, and delivered to him his Sons sufficiently instructed in the Liberal Sciences, and so from thence he went into Galatia.

At Jerusalem, by the diligence of the Priests, the building of the Temple properly so called, that contained the Holy, and the Holy of Holies, was fi∣nished in a year and a half; during which time, it is reported that it never rained in the day time, but only in the Nights: and in the eight years fol∣lowing, the Porches, the Ranges, and the rest of the buildings about the Temple were all finished.

When Alexander, and Aristobulus were returned into Judea, and had gain∣ed all mens love, Salome the Sister of Herod, and her Faction, fearing that at some time or other they would revenge their Mothers death, cast out a ru∣mour amongst the people, that they hated their Father, because he had cau∣sed their Mother to be slain: But Herod as yet suspecting no ill, used them with all Honour, as they deserved: and because they were now grown to mens estate,* 1.142 he provided them Wives: for Alexander, Bernice, the Daugh∣ter of Salome, and for Aristobulus, Glaphira, the Daughter of Archelaus, the King of the Cappadocians.

Then Herod hearing that Agrippa was again come into Asia, he went to him, and begged of him that he would come into his Kingdom as to his Friend,* 1.143 and Guest; and as he came, he entertained him in all the Cities that he had newly built, shewing him the publick buildings, and pre∣senting, both to himself and friends all kind of delights which might set forth his magnificence, at Sebaste, and the Port of Caesarea, and in the Ca∣stles of Alexandrion, Herodion, and Hyrcania. He brought him also into the City of Jerusalem, where all the People met him in their best, and Festival attire, and with acclamations of joy: Agrippa also sacrificed an Hecatombe to God, and feasted the People; and though he would willingly have stayed longer there, yet, fearing storms, the Winter no•• drawing

on, he hasted to sail into Jonia, both he and his Friends having been honou∣red with great presents by Herod.

As soon as the Spring came, Herod hearing that Agrippa was going with an Army to Bosphorus, made hast to meet him, and taking his way by Rhodes, and Chios, he came to Lesbos, thinking there to find him: But Agrippa being driven back by contrary North-winds Herod stayed at Chios, to whom many came privately to salute him, upon whom he bestowed ma∣ny princely gifts,* 1.144 and when he perceived that the Gate of the City that was thrown down in the War against Methridates, as yet lay buryed in its ruins, and that by reason of the poverty of the Inhabitants, it could not by them be restored to its former beauty and greatness, he bestowed upon them so much mony as would abundantly suffice to finish it, and exhorted them to hasten the restoring of their City to its former beauty, and grandure.

As soon, as the wind served, he left Chios, and sailed to Mytilene, and from thence to Byzantium, and there understanding that Agrippa had alrea∣dy passed the Cyanian Rock, he followed him with all speed, and overtook him at Sinopi, a City in Pontus, where, beyond Agrippa's expectation, he arrived with his Navy: His coming was yery grateful to him, and they embraced each other with singular affection,* 1.145 Agrippa looking upon it as an evident argument of his fidelity and friendship, that leaving his mani∣fold occasions, he would come to him in so seasonable a time. Where∣fore Herod still abode with him in the Army, was Companion with him in his labours, and partaker of his counsels: He was also present with him when he went to be merry, and was the only man that he used in difficult matters, for the love that he bore unto him.

Agrippa having forced the Bosphorans to lay down their Arms, in his whole journey thorough many Countries and Cities, he gratified Herod in many things,* 1.146 and at his intreaty, relieved the necessities of many: If any one needed an Intercessor to Agrippa, Herod was the only man, by whom he could obtain his suit, and assisted many in whatsoever they had need of.

When they were come into Jonia, a great multitude of Iews that in∣habited that Country, complained of the great injuries that they suffered from the Jonians, who would not permit them to live after their own Laws, but that upon their Festival days, they haled them before their Tribunals, and forbad them to send holy money to Ierusalem, which also they perverted to secular affairs, contrary to the priviledges granted them by the Romans:* 1.147 Herod took care that Agrippa should hear their complaints, and allowed them Nicholas Damascene, one of his Friends, to plead their cause, which when he had largely performed before Agrippa (many ho∣nourable Romans, and some Kings and Princes being present) the Greci∣ans denyed the thing, excusing themselves that the Iews were troublesom to them: But they on the contrary proved that they were free-born Ci∣tizens, and that they lived according to their own Laws without injuring of any; wherefore Agrippa answered that both for his Friend Herod's sake, as also because that which they demanded was just, he would gratifie them therein: He ordered therefore that the priviledges which were for∣merly granted them, should remain inviolable, and that none should mo∣lest them for living after their Country Laws. Then Herod rose up, and gave him thanks in the name of them all: and so after mu∣tual embraces, they took their leave each of other, and departed from Lesbos.

Herod in a few days after, having a prosperous Gale, arrived at Caesarea, and from thence went to Ierusalem, where, calling all the People together,

he gave them an account of his Journey,* 1.148 and told them what immunities he had procured for the Jews in Asia; and to win them the more to his friendship, he professed that he would remit to them the fourth part of his Tribute; with which bounty they being exceedingly taken, wished him all happiness, and departed with great joy.

Presently after his return,* 1.149 he was greatly incensed by the false accusations and artifices of his Sister Salome, and his Brother Pheroras, against his two Sons that he had by Mariamne, Alexander, and Aristobulus: whereupon to take down their spirits, he began to use them more hardly, and publickly he put hopes of the Kingdom into his Son Antipater, whom he begat when he was a private man, his Mother also being a woman of mean Parentage, whom formerly he had banished the City in favour to his two other Sons, and writing often unto Caesar for him privately, he gave him great commendations: and at the in∣treaties of Antipater, he recalled also his Mother Doris, whom he had put a∣way when he married Mariamne.

Agrippa after his ten years Government in Asia,* 1.150 being now to depart, Herod sailed to salute him; taking with him of all his Sons only Antipater, whom he delivered to Agrippa with many gifts, to be carried to Rome, and to be brought into Caesars favour.

Antipater was much honoured at Rome,* 1.151 being commended to all his Friends by his Fathers letters: and though he was absent, yet desisted he not by writ∣ing to incense his Father against the Sons of Mariamne, pretending his great care of his Fathers safety, but in truth, to make way for his succession in the Kingdom. About this time Agrippa died, and being brought into the Market∣place of Rome, Augustus commended him in a Funeral Oration.

Herod being now incensed against his Sons,* 1.152 Alexander and Aristobulus, he sailed with them to Rome to accuse them before Augustus, and not finding him there, he followed him as far as Aquileia, before whom he accused them of treachery against him; but the young men satisfied all that were present by their Apology for themselves mixed with prayers and tears, so that they were reconciled to their Father: After which, giving thanks unto Caesar, they depar∣ted together, and with them Antipater also, who pretended much joy that they were received into favour again.

A few days after Herod gave Caesar three hundred Talents,* 1.153 and again Caesar gave him half the revenues of the mettal Mines in Cyprus, and the other half also he committed to his oversight, and having honoured him with other gifts of Hospitality, he gave him leave to choose which of his Sons he pleased to be his successor, or if he liked it better to divide his Kingdom amongst them, which when he vvas about to do, Caesar told him that he vvould not suffer but that he should have his Kingdom during his life in his ovvn povver, as vvell as his Sons.

In Herods absence there vvas a rumour spread in Judea that he vvas dead, vvhereupon the Trachonites revolting, fell to their old trade of Thieving; but by the diligence of his Captains that he had left in his Kingdom, they vvere subdued,* 1.154 and forty of the chief of them, being terrified by the punishment of those that vvere taken, left their Country and fled into Arabia Nabathaea, vvhere they vvere entertained by Silaeus (vvho vvas an enemy to Herod, because he had denyed him his Sister Salome to Wife) vvho gave them a place to dvvell in that vvas vvell fortified.

Herod and his Sons sailing homvvard,* 1.155 arrived at Sebaste in Cilicia, vvhere they met vvith Archelaus King of Cappadocia, vvho courteously entertained Herod, much rejoycing that his Sons vvere reconciled to him, and that Alex∣ander had fairly ansvvered the crimes that vvere objected against him: and so giving royal gifts each to other they parted.

Herod being returned into Iudea, called the people together, and told them what he had done in his Voyage, and declared to them, that his Sons should Reign after him, first, Antipater, and then Alexander and Aristobulus, that he had by Mariamne.

About this time,* 1.156 in the year of the world 3994, Agrippa, the first King of the Iews of that name, was born, who dyed when he was fifty four years old, being struck by an Angel, Act. 12. 23. Also that lame man was now born, who being above forty years old, was healed, by Peter, at the Beautiful Gate of the Temple, Act. 4. 22.

Herod having finished Caesarea Stratonis, in the twenty eighth year of his Reign, he dedicated it with great solemnity, and many sports and pastimes: After which,* 1.157 he began to build another Town in a field called Capharsala, which he called Antipatris, after his Fathers name; and a Castle also, which he called Cyprus, after his Mothers name. In honour also of his dead Brother, he built in Ierusalem a very fair Tower, not inferiour to the Egyptian Pharos, and called it Phasaelus: and afterwards he built a Town of the same name in the Valley of Iericho, from whence the Countrey thereabouts is called Pha∣salus.

Herod, having wasted his wealth by his great Prodigality, and now wanting mony, after the example of John Hyrcanus, in the night, without the knowledg of the people, he opened Davids Sepulchre, where, though he found no mo∣ney, yet he found great store of precious things,* 1.158 and ornaments of gold, which he took away: for the expiation of which fact, he afterwards built a most sumptuous Monument of white Marble at the entrance of the Sepulchre.

Antipater,* 1.159 suborning other men falsly to accuse his Brethren, Alex∣ander and Aristobulus, takes upon him their defence, that making a shew of good will to them, he might the easier oppress them: and by these subtilties he so wrought upon his Father, that he thought him to be his only preserver. Hereupon Herod commended his Steward Ptolomy unto Antipater, and commu∣nicated all his Counsels with his Mother Doris, so that all things were done as they pleased, and still the King was imbittered against those, whom it was their profit that he should be angry with.

About this time Pheroras (Herods Brother) fell so madly in love with his own servant, that he refused marriage with Cypros, the Kings Daughter, that was offered him by his Brother: He also accused Herod to his Son Alexander, as if he had been greatly in love with his Wife Glaphyra: for both which, He∣rod was highly displeased with him.

In the year of the world 3996, he began to be diseased, who, lying at the Pool of Bethesda, was, after thirty eight years, restored to health by Christ, Joh. 5. 5.

Alexander,* 1.160 by the subtilties of his adversaries, being even driven to despe∣ration, was at this time reconciled to his Father, by Archelaus, King of the Cappadocians, who came to Jerusalem to visit Herod, and being accounted one of Herods chief Friends, received great gifts from him, and when he departed, Herod brought him as far as Antioch.

Not long after,* 1.161 Herod went a third time to Rome to visit Caesar, in whose ab∣sence those Thieves of Trachonis, whom Sylloeus had entertained, with their in∣rodes infested not only Judaea, but all Coelosyria; Syllaeus affording them both im∣punity and security.

Herod being returned from Rome,* 1.162 celebrated the Dedication of the Temple, re-edified by him in the space of nine years and a half, on the very Birth-day of his Kingdom, which he was wont to celebrate with great joy, at which time he Sacrificed unto God three hundred Oxen, and other of the people offered an in∣numerable company of Sacrifices, every one according to his ability.

Herod finding that in his absence his People had sustained much dammage by those Thieves of Trachonis,* 1.163 and seeing he could not subdue them, being under the protection of the Arabian, he therefore entred Trachonis, and destroy∣ed their Families, which yet did but incense them the more; so that contemn∣ing all dangers, they molested Herods Countries with continual excursions, driving, and carrying away the peoples Goods.

Herod, hereupon sent to the Presidents of Syria, Saturninus and Volum∣nius, desiring that he might have the punishing of the Thieves of Tra∣chonis, who by their incursions had often wasted his Country. They, when they heard hereof, being increased to the number of a thousand, began to waste both Fields and Villages, cutting the throats of all that fell into their hands; wherefore Herod demanded those Thieves to be delivered over to him, and withall, required the sixty Talents that he had lent Obodas, upon Syllaeus his security, who had thrust Obodas from the Government, and now ruled all himself: But Syllaeus denied that the Thieves were in Ara∣bia, and deferred also to pay the money; whereupon the business was deba∣ted before Saturninus and Volumnius, and in conclusion it was determined by them; that within thirty dayes space, both the money should be repaid, and the runawayes of both Countries should be delivered up, and Syllaeus swore by the Fortune of Caesar, before the Presidents of Syria, that he would perform what was enjoyned.

But when the time was expired, Syllaeus being unwilling to stand to the agreement, went to Rome: and in the mean time Herod, by the permissi∣on of Saturninus and Volumnius, to punish those obstinate people, raised an Army, entred Arabia, and marched as far in three dayes as they used to do in seven;* 1.164 and when he came to the Castle where the Thieves kept, he took it at the first assault, and demolished a Fortress also called Raeptu: and when a Captain of the Arabians came to their aid, they joyned Battel, in which few of the Herodians were slain, but there dyed twenty five of the Arabians, together with their Captain, whereupon the rest ••led. Be∣ing thus revenged of the Thieves, he brought three thousand Idumaeans into Trachona, to restrain the Thieveries committed there, and certified the Roman Generals, that he had only used that power which they had granted, against those obstimate Arabians, which, upon enquiry, they found to be true.

There were Letters posted away to Rome,* 1.165 to Syllaeus, that related matters far otherwise, aggravating every thing after their manner, by which Lyes Cae∣sar was so much incensed against Herod, that he wrote threatning Letters to him, because he had marched with an Army out of his own Kingdom without his leave: and he was so far provoked, that he would not hear his Ambassa∣dours, but dismissed them without an answer.

The Trachonites and Arabians taking hold of this occasion, molested the Ga∣rison of the Idumaeans, that Herod had set over them; but Herod being affright∣ed with Caesars anger, was fain to connive at it.

About this time Obodas, King of Arabia Nabathaea, dyed, and one Aeneas succeeded him, who changed his name into Aretas; which Syllaeus hearing of at Rome, endeavoured by false accusations to have him thrust from the Kingdom, and to get it to himself, bestowing much money upon the Cour∣tiers, and promising great things unto Caesar, whom he knew to be offend∣ed with Aretas, for assuming the Kingdom without his consent. In the mean while, Aretas sent Letters, and rich presents unto Caesar, and amongst them, a Crown worth many Talents: But Caesar would not hear his Am∣bassadours, and scorned his Presents, and dismissed them without any thing done.

Herod, being continually vexed with the insolencies of the Arabians, sent

Nicholas Damascene to Rome, to see, if by the mediation of his Friends, he could get Justice from Caesar:* 1.166 But in the mean time the discord with his Sons that he had by Mariamne, was greatly heightned by the artifices of Eurichus a Lacedemonian, which occasioned Herod, to find out their supposed Treache∣ry, to put to death by various torments, many both of his own, and of his Sons Friends, yet could he find no other evil by them; but some too free com∣plaints of improvident young men, concerning their Fathers immoderate cru∣elty, and his too easie hearkning to base pick-thanks, of the wicked deceits of their Brother Antipater, and of the faction that was combined against them, and that, to free themselves from these mischiefs, they were said to think of flying to Archelaus, King of Cappadocia, which thing indeed they did not de∣ny: Hereupon Herod cast them into Prison, as if they had been convicted of Treason against their Father, resolving to punish them according as his affairs went at Rome: and concerning this business he sent Letters to Caesar by Volumnius the Roman General, and Olympius, his Friend.

At Rome, Nicholas Damascene joyned himself to the Arabians, that came to accuse Syllaeus, professing that he was his accuser also before Augustus, and not Herods defender, and this he did, lest he should be repulsed as others had been before him. When by this means he had gotten access into Caesars presence, he indeed laid open many of Syllaeus his crimes, and withall added, that Caesar was circumvented with his lyes in the cause of Herod, which he confirmed by certain authentick records: This so prevailed with Caesar, that he con∣demned Syllaeus, and remanded him into the Province, that when he had sa∣tisfied the debt he might be punished.

From this time Augustus was reconciled to Aretas,* 1.167 and Herod, and then re∣ceived the Presents that before he had so often rejected, and confirmed the Kingdom of the Arabians to Aretas. He advised Herod also by his Letters, to call a Council of his Friends at Berytus, and joyning the Presidents of Syria with Archelaus the King of Cappadocia, by their joynt advice to determine of the business about his Sons.

About this time the Angel Gabriel (who long before had foretold to Daniel* 1.168 the coming of the Messias by a certain number of Weeks) appeared at the right side of the Altar of incense to Zachary the Priest, of the course of Abia, telling him, that there should be born to him now in his old age, his Wise Elizabeth also being well stricken in years, and barren, a Son Called John, a Nazarite, and the forerunner of the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elias: which he not believing, was made dumb, Luke. 1. 5. 22.

Herod having received Augustus his Letters, rejoyced exceedingly, both be∣cause he was returned into his favour, and for that he had granted him power to do what he would with his Sons, and hereupon he convened by messen∣gers all those that Caesar had appointed, to Berythus, except only Archelaus, and kept his Sons not far from the place,* 1.169 in a City of the Sidonians: and the Case being opened, Saturninus, one that had been Consul, delivered his opinion, but moderated with circumstances, that Herods Sons were to be con∣demned, but not to be put to death: After him, his three Sons that were his Lieutenants, delivered their opinions to the same purpose: But Voluminus pro∣nounced, that they were to be punished with death, whose opinion the major part followed: and so the Council being ended, Herod took his Sons with him, and meeting with Nicholas Damascene at Tyrus, they went together to Caesarea.

Here,* 1.170 whenas a certain old Souldier named Tyro, had smartly reprehended Herod for his wickedness determined against his Sons, and told him that three hundred more of his Captains were of the same opinion, Herod commanded him to be cast into Prison: Trypho the Kings Barber, taking this occasion, ac∣cused Tyro for that he had often sollicited him to cut the Kings throat with

his razor, as he was trimming him, and immediatly both Tyro and his Son, and the Barber were tortured: and Herod bringing those three hundred Captains, and Tyro and his Son, and the Barber, accused them before the People, against whom the people throwing any thing that came next to hand, slew them eve∣ry one.

Then were Alexander and Aristobulus led to Sebaste,* 1.171 and there strangled by their Fathers command, and their bodies were buried in the Castle of Alex∣andrion, where Alexander, their Grandfather by the Mothers side, and many of their Progenitors had been buried.

Antipater,* 1.172 when his Brethren were now dead, intended to remove his Fa∣ther also out of the way: and knowing that he was hated by many in the Kingdom, he endeavoured by Bribes to get the good will of his Fathers Friends, both at Rome and in Judea; but especially of Saturninus, the Presi∣dent of Syria, and of Pheroras, and Salome, the Brother and Sister of He∣rod.

At this time Herod sent home Glaphira, the Widow of his Son Alexan∣der, to her Father Archelaus the King of Cappadocia, and gave her a Dow∣ry out of his Treasury, lest some controversie should arise concerning it, and withall, he took great care of the young children of Alexander and Aristobu∣lus, which Antipater took very heavily, fearing, lest when they should come to age, they would hinder his designs: he sought therefore their destruction: and he so overcame Herod by his flatteries, that he suffered him to marry the daughter of Aristobulus, and his Son to marry the daughter of his Unkle Pheroras.

About this time Herod invited Zamaris, a Babylonian Jew, and gave him a Countrey in Trachonis to inhabit, and this he did, that he might be a guard to that Countrey against Thieves: and Zamaris coming with five hundred Horse, and an hundred of his Kinsmen, erected Castles in divers places of that Country, by which means he secured the Jews that came from Babylon to the Feasts at Jerusalem, from the Thieves,

Antipater working Treason against his Father, drew in his Unkle Pheroras and some of the Kings women, that were most addicted to the Sect of the Pha∣risees, except Salome,* 1.173 who constantly adhered to her Brother Herod. These Pharisees were a crafty people, arrogant, and enemies to Kings, and they on∣ly of the whole Nation of the Jews, refused to swear allegiance to Herod and Caesar, and were about six thousand. For which cause Herod fined them, and the Wife of Pheroras paid their fine for them, to whom, by way of requital, they foretold that the Kingdom should be taken from Herod and his chil∣dren, and be transferred upon her Husband, and Her, and their children: these things Salome made known to Herod,* 1.174 who, examining the business, put some of the Pharisees to death, and with them, the Eunuch Dagoas, and his darling Carus, who was commended to him for his handsomness; and be∣sides these, all the rest of his Family whom he found to have conspired with the Pharisees.

Herod having punished the Pharisees, called a Council of his Friends, and before them began an accusation against the Wife of his Brother Phe∣roras, and when Pheroras, though to gratifie his Brother, would not for∣sake her, he forbad Antipater Pheroras his company: and Antipater, that he might remove all suspition from himself, procured by his Friends, that his Father should send him immediately to Augustus:* 1.175 and accordingly Herod sent him with great Presents, and his Will, in which he declared, that Antipa∣ter should succeed him in the Kingdom: But if he died before him, then his Son that he had by Mariamne, the Daughter of Simon the High Priest.

In the sixth moneth after John was conceived,* 1.176 the Angel Gabriel was sent

to Nazareth in Galilee, to the blessed Virgin Mary betrothed to Joseph, of the same Tribe with her: viz. of the stock of David, and declared to her that she should bring forth the Son of God, and call his name Jesus, and she being more fully taught of his admirable conception by the power of the Holy Ghost over∣shadowing her, with great Faith, said, Be it to the Handmaid of the Lord accor∣ding to thy word, Luk. 1. 26, 38. and presently after she went into the Hill-Countrey, into a City of Judah, (viz. Hebron, a City of the Priests, scituated in the mountains of Judea, Josh. 21. 10, 11.) where, when she entred into the House of Zachary, and saluted her Cousin Elizabeth, the Babe sprang in her womb, and she, being filled with the Holy Ghost, declared that Mary was blessed, &c. Luk. 1. 39, 56.

Herod banished his Brother Pheroras into his Tetrarchy,* 1.177 because he would not part with his Wife, who swore that he would never return till he heard of Herods death, so that a little after, Herod falling sick, and often sending for him to receive some private instructions, he refuled to come for his Oaths∣fake.

When Elizabeths time was come,* 1.178 she brought forth a Son, who was cal∣led John, and Zacharies speech being restored to him, he prophesied, saying, Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, &c. Luk. 1. 57, 58. and Joseph finding his be∣trothed wife to be with child, thought of putting her away privily, but being warned by God in a dream, he took her to wife, Mat. 1. 24.

Pheroras falling sick, and Herod,* 1.179 beyond expectation, being recovered, went to visit him, and very kindly sought help for him, but he died within a few dayes after, whose Body was brought to Jerusalem, and interred by Herod, who honoured him with publick mourning.

At this time, two of Pheroras's freed men declared to Herod, how he was killed by poyson, given him by Doris, the Mother of Antipater, which, whilst Herod enquired into, by little and little he found out greater Villanies, and the manifest Treasons of his Son Antipater;* 1.180 who, when he went to Rome, had delivered a deadly poyson to Pheroras, that was sent him out of Egypt from his Unkle Theodore, the Brother of Doris, wherewithall to make away his Fa∣ther, that so the suspition of the Parricide should not lye upon him, being so far absent.

Hereupon, Herod put Doris out of the Palace, and took from her Jewels that were worth many Talents: He also put from him his Wife Mariamne, the Daughter of the High Priest, as a Partner of all these secrets, and blotted her Son out of his Will, and deprived her Father of the High Priesthood, and substituted in his room Matthias, the Son of Theophilus, that was born at Je∣rusalem.

Presently after came Bathillus, Antipaters freed man, from Rome, who being tortured, confessed, that formerly he had brought poyson, and given it to Do∣ris and Pheroras, that if the first proved too weak, they should be sure to dis∣patch Herod with the second. There came also Letters from his Friends at Rome,* 1.181 to the King, written by the entreaty of Antipater, in which Archelaus and Philip, Herods Sons, were accused, for often complaining of the death of Alexander and Aristobulus, pitying the misfortune of their murthered Bre∣thren: For these young men were studying at Rome, and their Father had now commanded their return: whereupon Antipater by great gifts corrupted those Friends, that by their Letters they might make the young men suspected to their Father, who, if they lived, might be an hindrance to his hopes.

About this time,* 1.182 Augustus taxing all the Roman world, our Lord Christ was born, Luk. 2. 4, 5.

Shortly after, there came Wise men from the East, the Star being their guide, to Herod at Jerusalem, and there, being taught that the birth-place of Christ was Bethlehem of Judea, thither they went, and entring into the house,

which was shewed them by the Star that stood over it, they found the Child, and fell down and worshipped him, &c. Mat. 2. 1. 12.

After the Angel of the Lord appeared unto Joseph in a dream, warn∣ing him to fly into Egypt,* 1.183 where he remained till the death of Herod, Mat. 2. 13, 14, 15.

Herod thinking that the Child was still at Bethlehem,* 1.184 that he might destroy him amongst the rest, killed all the children which were in Bethlehem, and in all the Coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time (of the Star first seen in the East) that he had enquired of the Wise men, Mat. 2. 16.

Herod receiving Letters from Antipater from Rome, in which he signified, that having dispatched all his business according to his own mind, he would shortly return into his own Countrey;* 1.185 he wrote back to him again, dissem∣bling his anger, that he should make haste, lest any thing should befall him in his absence, that he should not like of; and also gently complaining of his Mo∣ther, he promised that he would remit all differences at his return.

Antipater heard uo news all this while either of the death of Pheroras, or of those things that were on foot against him, though there were seven months space between the wickedness proved against him,* 1.186 and his return. For in his journey, at Tarentum he met with a Letter of the death of Pheroras, and in Ci∣licia, those Letters of his Father that called him back so hastily; and when he came to Celenderis, a Town of Cilicia, he began to doubt of his return, hearing of, and being extream sorrowful for the disgrace of his Mother, yet failing forwards, he came to Sebaste, a Port of Caesarea, where, being saluted by none, he went to Jerusalem.

It happened that Quintilius Varus was the same time at Jerusalem, being sent as Successor to Saturninus into Syria, and then called thither by Herod to assist him with his Counsel in those his weighty affairs. As they were sitting both to∣gether, in comes Antipater, not knowing any thing, and in his purple Gar∣ment that he used to wear, entring the Palace; but himself being entred, the Guards suffered none of his followers to come in with him: As he was coming near, his Father thrust him from him, reproaching him with the murther of his Brethren, and his intention of poysoning his Father, telling him that the next day Varus should hear, and determine all things betwixt them; and ac∣cordingly the next day,* 1.187 Varus and the King sitting in Judgment, his Father himself first began the accusation, and left the prosecution and confirmation thereof, to his old Friend Nicholas Damascene, one that knew all the business; and when Antipater could not clear himself from the crimes objected against him, Varus commanded the poyson that he had prepared for his Father to be brought forth, which being given to a condemned main, killed him immedi∣ately: after which, Varus rose from the Council, and the next day went to Antiochia: but Herod cast his Son into Prison, and signified so much by Letters to Caesar: sending also messengers, who by word of mouth might acquaint him with the cursed Treason of Antipater.

As these Messengers were posting to Rome,* 1.188 Herod fell sick, and made his will, leaving his Kingdom to his youngest Son, Herod Antipas, being exaspe∣rated against his two elder Sons, Archelaus and Philip, by the false accusations of Antipater.

Judas the Son of Sariphaeus, and Matthias the Son of Margalothus, two of the most Learned of the Jews, and best Interpreters of the Law, knowing that the Kings sickness was incurable, perswaded some young men, that were their Scholars,* 1.189 to throw down the Golden Eagle that was set up by Herod, over the great gate of the Temple; who accordingly, going up at noon day, pulled, and hewed down with their axes, the Eagle, a great multitude being in the Temple, and beholding it: which, as soon as it was told the Captain, he came

with a strong Band of Souldiers, and laid hold upon some forty of the young men, together with their Masters, and brought them to Herod: These con∣stantly defending what they had done, Herod commanded them to be bound, and sent them to Jericho: Then calling for the Rulers of the Jews, into whose Assembly he was brought in a Litter, by reason of his weakness, he complain∣ed to them, not so much of the injury done to himself, as to God (as he said.) These denying that it was done by their order, somewhat pacified him, only he took away the High-Priesthood from Matthias, whom he sus∣pected not to be a stranger to that fact, and made his Successor Jazer, the Bro∣ther of his Wife Mariamne, the Daughter of Simon the High Priest; but he burned alive the other Matthias,* 1.190 that was the author of this sedition, and his companions.

Herods disease began now to grow worse:* 1.191 for he was burned with a slow fire, which was not perceived so much by the outward touch, as by the in∣ward effects of it, which burnt up his very Bowels: He had also the disease cal∣led the Bulemia, or Dog-like appetite, which provoked him to a continual de∣sire of eating, and yet nothing would satisfie him: He was also continually tor∣mented with ulcers in his Bowels, and pains of the Cholick: His feet swelled with a moist phlegm, and his thighs also: His members rotted, and were full of worms, which occasioned an intolerable stink: He was no less troubled with a Priapisme: and moreover was vexed with grievous convulsions, and diffi∣culty of breathing.

And though he was so grievously tormented,* 1.192 that every one judged that he could not be able to endure it long, yet he hoped that he should break through it, being very careful to send for the ablest Physicians, and sought medicines from every place: He went also beyond Jordan, to the Hot Baths at Callirhoe, which run into the Asphaltite Lake, which, beside the medicinal virtue, are pleasant, and good to be drunk: There being, by the advice of his Physicians, set into a Bathing tub of oyl, he seemed to them to be giving up the Ghost, yet by the sudden crying out, and lamentations of his Friends, he came to himself again, and now seeing no hope of recovery, he commanded fifty Drachmaes to be given to every Souldier, and having shewed much liberality to his Captains and Friends, he returned again to Iericho.

Augustus being told, that amongst the Children which Herod had caused to be slain at Bethlehem, there was a Son also of his own slain, He said, That it was better to be Herods Hog than his Son.

Herod an Edict called together to Iericho all the most Noble of the Iews, and when they came, he shut them all up together in a place called the Hip∣podrome, giving command to his Sister Salome, and her Husband Alexus, that as soon as He was dead,* 1.193 they should cause his Souldiers to slay them all, that so the people might have cause of sorrow, who otherwise (he feared) would re∣joyce at his death.

At this time Letters came from Rome, from the Ambassadours whom He had sent to Caesar, wherein they certified him, that the Emperour left Antipa∣ter to his Fathers pleasure, either to banish, or to put him to death. Herod hear∣ing this, was a little cheared: but presently his torments returning, and being greedy of meat,* 1.194 He called for an apple, and a knife to pare it, intending with the knife to have stabbed himself, which also he attempted: but Archelaus, his Nephew, prevented him, and holding his right Hand, called for help. This accident caused much sorrow, fear, and tumult through the whole Palace, as if Herod had been dead.

Antipater perceiving the noise, thought verily that his Father was dead, and thereupon began to tamper with his Keeper about letting him out, pro∣mising him great Rewards, both for the present, and for the future, when it would lye in his power amply to reward him: This his practice the Keeper

told to the King, who, for indignation cryed, and though he was so near death yet did he raise up himself on his Bed, and commanded one of his Guard to go presently and kill Antipater,* 1.195 and to bury him in the Castle of Hyrcanion, with∣out any honour, which was done accordingly.

Then did He make a new Testament: for Antipas,* 1.196 whom before he had made Successor to his Kingdom, he made Tetrarch of Galilee and Petrea: To his Son Philip he assigned the Regions of Gaulanitis, Trachonitis, Batanaea and Pancada, the name of a Tetrarchy, but he gave the Kingdom to his Son Arche∣laus: To his sister Salome he gave Jamnia, Azotus, and Thasaelis, with five hun∣dred thousand Drachmaes: To the rest of his Kindred he gave money and year∣ly Pensions. To Caesar he gave ten Millions of Drachmaes of silver, and all his Plate, as well of Gold as of Silver, and a great quantity of precious moveables: and to Livia, Caesars Wife, and some certain Friends, he gave five Millions of Drachmaes.

Having thus ordered these things,* 1.197 five dayes after Antipater was put to death, he dyed himself, having enjoyed the Kingdom 34 years after the death of Antigonus: but from the time that he was declared King by the Romans 37 years, about the 25th of our November, in the year of the world 4001, and af∣ter the Birth of Christ, about two years.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Herods Pede∣gree.
• * 1.2

  Herod is made Governour of Galilee.
• * 1.3

  He puts Ese∣kias to death.
• * 1.4

  He is cted before the Sanhedrim.
• * 1.5

  Appears with his Guard.
• * 1.6

  Sameas his boldness.
• * 1.7

  A prediction.
• * 1.8

  Herod slyes.
• * 1.9

  Refused to appear when again cited.
• * 1.10

  Is made Go∣vernour of Calosyria.
• * 1.11

  Is confirmed in it.
• * 1.12

  Antipater poysoned.
• * 1.13

  Herod goes to Jerusalem.
• * 1.14

  He is excited to revenge his Fathers death.
• * 1.15

  Malichus slain.
• * 1.16

  A sedition at Jerusalem.
• * 1.17

  Herod's valour.
• * 1.18

  His Policy.
• * 1.19

  He overcomes Antigonus.
• * 1.20

  Herod accused to Anthony.
• * 1.21

  But acquitted.
• * 1.22

  War between Antigonus and Herod.
• * 1.23

  Herod pre∣vails.
• * 1.24

  The Parthians falshhood.
• * 1.25

  Herod flies from Jerusa∣lem.
• * 1.26

  He would have killed himself.
• * 1.27

  Jerusalem plundered.
• * 1.28

  Anigonu•• made King of the Jews.
• * 1.29

  Cuts off Hyr∣canus ears.
• * 1.30

  Phasaelus kills himself.
• * 1.31

  Herod flies to Melchus King of Arabia.
• * 1.32

  Is rejected by him.
• * 1.33

  Herod goes in to Egypt.
• * 1.34

  From thence into Italy.
• * 1.35

  He comes to Rhodes.
• * 1.36

  So into Italy.
• * 1.37

  Anthony fa∣vours him.
• * 1.38

  And Caesar.
• * 1.39

  The Senate make him King.
• * 1.40

  Herods Fami∣ly besieged.
• * 1.41

  A special pro∣vidence.
• * 1.42

  He returns homeward.
• * 1.43

  Herods King∣dom enlarged.
• * 1.44

  Herod relieves Silo.
• * 1.45

  He takes Joppa.
• * 1.46

  Besieges Je∣rusalem.
• * 1.47

  Herod takes Jericho.
• * 1.48

  His activity.
• * 1.49

  He pursues the Thieves.
• * 1.50

  Subdues Ga∣lile.
• * 1.51

  Alexandrium rebuilt.
• * 1.52

  Ptolomy slain.
• * 1.53

  Herod beats the Thieves.
• * 1.54

  Machaeras his cruelty.
• * 1.55

  Herod goes to Anthony.
• * 1.56

  Joseph is slain.
• * 1.57

  Herod over∣comes his ene∣mies.
• * 1.58

  A special pro∣vidence.
• * 1.59

  Herod beats his enemies.
• * 1.60

  A special pro∣vidence.
• * 1.61

  Pappus slain.
• * 1.62

  Herod besie∣ges Jerusalem.
• * 1.63

  Marries Mariamne.
• * 1.64

  Herods great Army.
• * 1.65

  The Jews fight valiantly.
• * 1.66

  A Famine in Jerusalem.
• * 1.67

  Jerusalem ta∣ken by Herod.
• * 1.68

  Cruelty.
• * 1.69

  Antigonus imprisoned.
• * 1.70

  Herod sayes the City.
• * 1.71

  Rewards the Romans.
• * 1.72

  Herods cruel∣ty.
• * 1.73

  Who were spectators of it.
• * 1.74

  Anthony slew Antigonus.
• * 1.75

  Hyrcanus honoured in Babylon.
• * 1.76

  Herods subtil∣ty.
• * 1.77

  Hananeel made High-Priest.
• * 1.78

  Alexandra takes it ill,
• * 1.79

  Anthony sends for Aristobu∣lus.
• * 1.80

  Aristobulus made High-Priest.
• * 1.81

  Alexandra confined.
• * 1.82

  She complains to Cleopatra.
• * 1.83

  She is surpri∣zed by Herod.
• * 1.84

  Aristobulus highly honou∣red.
• * 1.85

  He is drown∣ed.
• * 1.86

  Herods subtil∣ty.
• * 1.87

  Alexandra complains to Cleopatra.
• * 1.88

  Herod questi∣oned by Anthony.
• * 1.89

  But cleared by his Bribes.
• * 1.90

  Herods return.
• * 1.91

  Ioseph put to death.
• * 1.92

  Gardens of Balsom.
• * 1.93

  Herod pre∣pares to assist Anthony.
• * 1.94

  A great Earthquake.
• * 1.95

  Herod over∣comes the Arabians.
• * 1.96

  Alexandra's restlesness.
• * 1.97

  Herod goes to Caesar.
• * 1.98

  His cruel command.
• * 1.99

  Caesar honours him.
• * 1.100

  His Wife and Mother are full of discon∣tents.
• * 1.101

  Herods bounty to Caesar, and his Army.
• * 1.102

  Herod is jea∣lous of his Wife.
• * 1.103

  He meets Cae∣sar.
• * 1.104

  Caesar enlarges his Govern∣ment.
• * 1.105

  Herods suspi∣cions of his Wife are en∣encreased.
• * 1.106

  Mariamne condemned to death.
• * 1.107

  Her Mothers Hypocrisie.
• * 1.108

  Mariamnes Death.
• * 1.109

  Herods exces∣sive grief for her.
• * 1.110

  A great Plague fol∣lows.
• * 1.111

  Herods Me∣lancholy and sickness.
• * 1.112

  Alexandra's Treason and Death.
• * 1.113

  Herod grows cruel.
• * 1.114

  Salome leaves her Husband and comes to Herod.
• * 1.115

  Herods cruel∣ty.
• * 1.116

  He instituted Games to the discontent of the Jews.
• * 1.117

  A conspiracy against Herod.
• * 1.118

  The Conspi∣rators are put to Death.
• * 1.119

  Herods cruel∣ty.
• * 1.120

  He fortified Samaria, and built a Tem∣ple there.
• * 1.121

  He built seve∣ral Castles.
• * 1.122

  Plague, and Famine.
• * 1.123

  Herods care to provide for the People.
• * 1.124

  His bounty to strangers.
• * 1.125

  He sends aid to Caesar,
• * 1.126

  He built him∣self a Pallace.
• * 1.127

  He makes a new High Priest: and marries Mari∣amne.
• * 1.128

  He built ano∣ther Pallace.
• * 1.129

  And Sebaste, and a stately Haven.
• * 1.130

  He sent his Sons to Caesar.
• * 1.131

  Caesar enlar∣ged his King∣dom.
• * 1.132

  He repre∣sented the Thieves.
• * 1.133

  He went to Agrippa.
• * 1.134

  〈…〉〈…〉.
• * 1.135

  Caesar still en∣larged his Do∣minions.
• * 1.136

  Herod buil•• a Temple and eased his Sub∣jects.
• * 1.137

  His jealousies.
• * 1.138

  He rebuilt the Temple at Jerusalem.
• * 1.139

  Nine years it was in build∣ing.
• * 1.140

  He goes into Italy.
• * 1.141

  His bounty.
• * 1.142

  Herods Sons married.
• * 1.143

  Herod enter∣tains Agrippa.
• * 1.144

  Herods great bounty.
• * 1.145

  His love to Agrippa.
• * 1.146

  Agrippa's love to him.
• * 1.147

  Herods favour to the Jews in Jonia.
• * 1.148

  Herod ingrati∣ates himself with the Jews.
• * 1.149

  He is incensed against his Sons.
• * 1.150

  He visits A∣grippa.
• * 1.151

  Antipaters subtility.
• * 1.152

  Herod accuse∣th his Sons.
• * 1.153

  Caesars favours to Herod.
• * 1.154

  Thieves sub∣dued.
• * 1.155

  Herod returns with his Sons,
• * 1.156

  Agrippa born.
• * 1.157

  Herods great bnildings.
• * 1.158

  He robs Da∣vids Sepul∣chre.
• * 1.159

  Antipaters s••btilty.
• * 1.160

  Alexander reconciled to his Father.
• * 1.161

  Herod goes again to Rome.
• * 1.162

  He returns and dedicates the Temple.
• * 1.163

  Thieves do much mis∣chief.
• * 1.164

  Herod destroys th•• Thieves.
• * 1.165

  Caesar incensed aga••••st him.
• * 1.166

  Herod falls out with his Sons, and imprisons them.
• * 1.167

  Caesar is re∣conciled to Herod.
• * 1.168

  An Angel ap∣pears to Zachary.
• * 1.169

  Herod pro∣cures his Sons to be condem∣ned.
• * 1.170

  Herods cruel∣ty.
• * 1.171

  Herods Sons strangled.
• * 1.172

  Antipaters Treason,
• * 1.173

  Of the Pha∣risees,
• * 1.174

  Herod slew some of them.
• * 1.175

  Herod sends his Son to Caesar.
• * 1.176

  The Angel ap∣pears to Mary.
• * 1.177

  Herod banish∣ed his Brother.
• * 1.178

  John Baptist is born.
• * 1.179

  Pheroras dieth.
• * 1.180

  Antipaters' Treason.
• * 1.181

  Antipaters Craft.
• * 1.182

  Christ is born.
• * 1.183

  Joseph flyes into Egypt.
• * 1.184

  Herod kills the children.
• * 1.185

  Herod en∣snarers his Son.
• * 1.186

  Antipaters return.
• * 1.187

  Antipater accused by his Father.
• * 1.188

  Herods sickness.
• * 1.189

  The Golden Eagle hewn down.
• * 1.190

  Herod puts them to death.
• * 1.191

  His sickness encreaseth.
• * 1.192

  All means of cure fall him.
• * 1.193

  His cruelty.
• * 1.194

  He attempts to murther himself.
• * 1.195

  Antipater slain.
• * 1.196

  Herods Will.
• * 1.197

  His Death.