At that time Herod the tetrarch heard of the fame of Jesus,

MATTHEW 14:1KJV
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Matthew 14:1 (KJV)

What does Matthew 14:1 mean?

Matthew 14:1 tells us that at a certain point in time, Herod the tetrarch heard reports about the reputation and works of Jesus. This verse sets the stage for the events that follow by showing that Jesus’ growing fame had reached even the local ruler.

Matthew 14:1 takes place during Jesus’ ministry in Galilee. Herod the tetrarch, who governed part of the region, is the one hearing about Jesus. The verse highlights that Jesus’ actions and reputation were becoming widely known, even among political leaders, which will soon lead to Herod’s personal involvement in the story.

The Greek behind Matthew 14:1

  • Ἡρῴδης (Hērōdēs): This is the Greek form of "Herod," specifically Herod Antipas, a regional ruler under the Romans. Knowing which Herod is meant helps clarify the historical setting.
  • τετράρχης (tetrarchēs): This word means “tetrarch,” a ruler of a fourth part of a region. It shows that Herod was not a full king but a subordinate ruler, which fits the political climate of the time.
  • ἀκοή (akoē): This is translated as “fame” or “report.” The Greek word often refers to news or rumors spreading, emphasizing that Jesus’ reputation was becoming a topic of public discussion and concern.

Why Matthew 14:1 matters

  • This verse marks a turning point where Jesus’ ministry draws the attention of political authorities, which will have consequences for both Jesus and John the Baptist.
  • The mention of Herod the tetrarch connects the story to real historical figures and events, grounding the narrative in a specific time and place.
  • By noting that Herod heard of Jesus’ fame, Matthew prepares the reader for the conflict and tension that will unfold in the following verses, especially concerning Herod’s actions.

Where else these words appear

“tetrarch” Greek G5076 · used in 4 verses

  • Luke 3:19 But Herod the tetrarch, being reproved by him for Herodias his brother Philip's wife, and for all the evils which Herod had done,
  • Luke 9:7 Now Herod the tetrarch heard of all that was done by him: and he was perplexed, because that it was said of some, that John was risen from the dead;
  • Acts 13:1 Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.

“fame” Greek G189 · used in 22 verses

  • Matthew 4:24 And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them.
  • John 12:38 That the saying of Esaias the prophet might be fulfilled, which he spake, Lord, who hath believed our report? and to whom hath the arm of the Lord been revealed?
  • Galatians 3:5 He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?

“Herod” Greek G2264 · used in 41 verses

  • Matthew 2:1 Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,
  • Mark 6:17 For Herod himself had sent forth and laid hold upon John, and bound him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife: for he had married her.
  • Luke 23:7 And as soon as he knew that he belonged unto Herod's jurisdiction, he sent him to Herod, who himself also was at Jerusalem at that time.

“time” Greek G2540 · used in 82 verses

  • Matthew 8:29 And, behold, they cried out, saying, What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? art thou come hither to torment us before the time?
  • John 7:6 Then Jesus said unto them, My time is not yet come: but your time is alway ready.
  • Ephesians 5:16 Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.