The History of the Old Testament Methodized
In the Civil Wars Herod joined with Antony, and was by him desired (having forces sufficient) to chastise the Arabians, who it seems denied to pay the Tribute imposed on them, which he did, and though at his first attempt he miscarried, yet afterwards he quite overthrew and brought them under.
Cleopatra having accompanied Antony in his journey to Armenia as far as Euphrates, in her return came into Judea, where she was nobly entertained by Herod, and had duly paid her the Tributes of the Countries of Judea and Arabia, which Antony had given her, though those great gifts exceedingly offended the people of Rome.
In the seventh year of Herod 's reign (reckoning from the death of Antigonus) Octavius Caesar overcame Antony at Actium. In the beginning of the spring that year there happened such a dreadful Earthquake in Judea, that 10000 were destroyed with the fall and ruins of houses.
About this time Hillel a Babylonian of the stock of David flourished at Jerusalem, of whose disciples Jonathan was one, the son of Uzziah, the famous Author of the Chaldee Paraphrase, from a difference between this Hillel and Sameas or Shammai (of whom before) the Pharisees were divided into two Sects, concerning whom see Jerome, Lib. 3. Com. on Isa. Ch. 8. v. 14. There were great differences afterwards between the Scholars of Hillel and Shammai, and now began the Titles of Rabban and Rabbi. See Dr. Lightfoot 's Harmon. Sect. 8.
Alexandra now hoping that Herod would be punished by Caesar (to whom he was an enemy, having assisted Antony ) counseled her Father Hircanus not any longer to endure these afflictions of their family, but to go to Malchus King of Arabia and seek protection from him. The old man was at last prevailed with to send to the Arabian for this purpose, and employing one Dositheus a friend of his in this secret business (who had many obligations upon him to be faithful to his trust ) yet he to curry favor with Herod shown him the Letter. The King thanking him for that kindness to him, having read it, desired him to new-seal it and carry it to the Arabian, and to receive his answer and bring it to him. The Arabian wrote back that he was ready to receive him and his family, and the Jews of that party. Upon this Herod produces these matters, and this confederacy before the Sanhedrin, and so causeth Hircanus to be put to death.
Having thus dispatched Hircanus, he thought then of going to make his peace with Caesar, therefore committing the care of his Kingdom to Pheroras his Brother, he disposed of his Mother and his Sister Salome, and several of his kindred in the Castle of Massada; but Mariamne (who for some differences would not live with his Mother ) and Alexandra he placed in Alexandrion, committing the custody of them to his Treasurer Joseph, and one Sohemus an Iturean, with this private instruction, that if any sinister thing should befall him they should presently put both of them to death, and to the utmost of their power continue the Kingdom to his children. Having thus ordered matters, he posts to Rhodes to meet with Caesar there, whither being come he only laid aside his Crown, but for his other Princely ornaments he altered nothing. Being admitted into Caesar 's presence with great constancy and magnanimity of spirit he plainly avowed and owned the love and affection he had born to Antony, as also the succors he had sent him; adding also that he was ready with the same faithfulness and affection to serve Caesar; which so wrought upon this brave and magnanimous Prince, that he liked him exceedingly, and confirmed him in the Kingdom, and took him into intimate friendship with himself.
Afterwards as Caesar passed through Syria into Egypt, Herod entertained him with all Royal magnificence at Ptolemais, and gave plenty of victuals to his Army: He also presented Caesar with eight hundred Talents, and furnished his Army in their march to Pelusium, (through places that were barren and wanted water) both with wine and water, so that he procured from them the reputation of a noble and Heroic spirit.
Herod upon his return to his own Kingdom found his wife Mariamne very cool in her affections towards him, so that at all the caresses he made to her she would deeply sigh (for she had got out of Sohemus by her feminine insinuations the secret command that Herod had given him concerning herself and her Mother. ) Being by this and the false accusations of his sister Salome, and his Mother Cypra much incensed against her, he had thoughts of putting her to death, but news coming then to him of the death of Antony and Cleopatra, and that Caesar had won Egypt, he hasted down to him and left his family as it was. Caesar highly honored him, and restored to him part of his Country which Cleopatra (upon Antony 's gift) had seized upon; and further added to his Kingdom Gadara, Hippon, and Samaria, and by the Sea-side Gaza, Anthedon, Joppa, and the Tower of Straton, which was no small accession to the splendor of his Kingdom.
Caesar having settled all things in Egypt as he thought fit, marched with his forces into Syria, whither also Herod attended him as far as Antioch.
After Herod 's return from Caesar by the space of one whole year, suspicions daily increased between him and Mariamne; she often upbraiding him with the death of her Grandfather Hircanus, and her Brother Aristobulus. Solome perceiving discontents to grow high between them, suborned a Butler who came and told the King that he was solicited by Mariamne to deliver unto him a love-potion, which whatsoever it was, he had by him. Hereupon Herod examined the most faithful servants of Mariamne by torture, who confessed nothing but that she was offended at something that Sohemus had declared to her, which when the King heard, he cried out that Sohemus (who had been ever faithful to him) would never have revealed those things to her had there not been some more secret familiarity between them than was fit, and thereupon commanded Sohemus immediately to be put to death. Then calling a Council of his friends, he there accused his wife for practicing to poison him; they perceiving the Kings mind by general consent condemned her, and so she was put to death, the execution being hastened by Solome 's instigation. When she was dead Herod was almost mad for grief that the deed was done (for he loved her extremely ) neither could he by any delights or feastings divert his Melancholy, but was forced to yield to his grief, and his passion prevailing upon him, he would often bid his servants call Mariamne, as though she were alive. So that casting off the care of his Kingdom, he retired to Samaria (called then Sebaste in honor of Augustus ) which was called by the Greeks 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 from the splendor of his dignity, and the honor they gave him something greater than human.
As Herod was thus affected there came a Plague which swept away a great part both of the Nobility and people, this being interpreted as a judgment from God for the unjust death of the Queen. Herod 's discontents increasing, he at last fell into a great sickness, so that his Physicians almost despaired of him. During his sickness Alexandra (now living at Jerusalem ) endeavored to get the two Castles of the City into her own hands, (one of them joined to the Temple, the other was within the City) and dealt with the Governors of them to that purpose, that they would deliver them to her for the children of Mariamne, lest if the King should die they should be seized on by others. But the Governors being faithful to Herod sent Messengers presently to him to acquaint him with Alexandra 's design, who thereupon ordered she should forthwith be put to death. Then recovering from his sickness he returned to Jerusalem, but was grown so cruel that he was ready for the least cause to put any one to death. A difference arising between Costobarus an Idumean, and his wife Solome the sister of Herod, she contrary to the custom of the Jews sent him a bill of divorce, and accused him to Herod, that he with Lysimachus, Antipater, and Dositheus were practicing some innovations; upon which Herod sent and slew them, with others that were conceived to be of their party, endeavoring that none should remain of the kindred of Hircanus, or indeed any other persons of worth and power that might resist him.
Herod now departed more and more from his Countries custom, violating them with strange inventions; for he instituted wrestlings every fifth year in honor of Caesar; for the exhibiting of which he built a Theater in Jerusalem, and an Amphitheater in the Plain, both of them very sumptuous for the workmanship, but clean contrary to the Jewish customs. To these he invited all such as were skilled in wrestling, and that excelled in Music, and playing on instruments. And hanging his Theater with Trophies, much distasted the people, as being principled by their Religion against Pictures.
Ten Citizens of Jerusalem about that time conspiring against him were discovered and put to death.
In the thirteenth year of his reign, that he might be more secure from Conspiracies, he began to fortify Samaria called Sebaste. Also he built another fort as a bridle to the Nation, namely the Tower of Straton, and in Galilee Galalus, in Poraea Esthmonitis, which Castles being so conveniently placed he by them kept the people in awe.
This year very grievous calamities befell the Country of the Jews: 1. There was a continual drought, upon which a famine followed, and after that the plague. Herod upon this to supply the public necessities took and melted all the gold and silver that was in the Palace, not sparing anything though of never so costly workmanship, nay not his own vessels that were for his daily use. Having made money of all he sent it into Egypt, where at that time under Caesar Petronius was Governor, who though he had multitudes who at that time fled to him for the like necessity, yet being Herod 's friend he readily gave his men leave to export corn, assisting them both in the buying, and in the carriage of it. When the corn was come into Judea Herod very carefully divided it, first to such who were most in need, and took care that the ancient and sickly should not want; and by this means he recovered himself into the affections, and good liking of the people again.
He also provided for his subjects against the sharpness of winter that none should want clothing, for their cattle being dead, their wool and other things failed. He helped also the Neighbor-cities of the Syrians with corn, so that by his providence and bounty he began to be renowned both at home and abroad.
He now marries another Mariamne, esteemed the most beautiful woman of that age, the daughter of Simon a Priest, whom he preferred to the High-Priesthood, putting out Jesus the Son of Phabes.
After this he employed his time and treasure in sumptuous and royal buildings, as particularly that of Cesarea formerly called the Tower of Straton, which he began in the sixteenth year of his reign, and in twelve years finished it. He built for himself also a Palace in Zion very stately, and a Town about sixteen furlongs from Jerusalem, which he called Herodion.
He now sends his Sons Alexander and Aristobulus (whom he had by Mariamne the Asmonaean ) to Rome to Caesar, to be there brought up, for whom their lodging was prepared at Pollio's house the great friend of Herod. Caesar entertained the young men very courteously, and gave Herod power to make which of his Sons he pleased heir of his Kingdom.
Augustus gave the Tetrarchy of Zenodorus to Herod, which was seated between Galilee and Trachona; he made him also one of the Governors of Syria, and commanded the Governors of that Province to do nothing without his advice. Herod also begged a Tetrarchy of Caesar for his Brother Pheroras, on whom he bestowed an hundred Talents out of the revenues of his own Kingdom.
At Panium near the Fountain-heads of Jordan he built a goodly Temple in honor of Caesar, of white marble. He remitted also to his subjects some part of their Tribute under color that they should have some ease after the dearth, but indeed to appease their minds which he saw were offended at such kind of buildings, which seemed to tend to nothing but the destruction of Religion and good manners.
To prevent disturbances he forbad private meetings, and too frequent feastings. He had spies that mingled themselves in all companies; yea he would sometimes go himself disguised among the people to hear what they said of him and his Government. The disaffected to him he took a course to punish, and the rest he bound unto him by an oath which he exacted of them.
After this in the eighteenth year of his reign, taking down (at least for the most part) the old Temple at Jerusalem, (as Josephus reports, Lib. 14. Ch. 14.) he built another much more stately and magnificent, having provided very great white stones , (whereof some were 25 cubits long, twelve broad, and eight in height ) and other materials for the work in the space of two years. He began to build it forty six years before the first Passover of the Ministry of Christ, see Job. 2.20. where we may read the words, forty and six years (reckoning to this time) hath this Temple been built. The building the Temple under Zerubbabel began in the first year of the Monarchy of Cyrus, and was after twenty years time finished in the sixth year of Darius the Son of Histaspis. But this magnificent building of Herod 's was finished in nine years and an half.
The inward Temple containing the Holy and Holy of Holies was finished in a year and an half. In all which time (it's reported) that it never rained in the daytime but only in the nights. Then in the eight years following the Porches, the Ranges, and the rest of the building about the Temple were all finished. He celebrated the Dedication of the Temple on his own birth-day, sacrificing three hundred Oxen to the great joy of the people.
These things done, Herod sets sail for Italy to salute Caesar, and see his Sons, and passing by Greece was not only present but made Judge at the Olympic Exercises, and bestowing some Annual revenue upon them (that they might be the more splendid ) for this bounty he is declared perpetual Judge of those Exercises. Coming to Rome, Caesar courteously received him, and delivered to him his Sons well educated and instructed in all the Liberal Arts and Sciences. Being returned home with his Sons Alexander and Aristobulus, they being grown to man's estate he provided them wives; for Alexander, Bernice the daughter of Salome; for Aristobulus, Glaphira the daughter of Archelaus King of the Cappadocians. These young men gained the love and affection of the people exceedingly, but Salome and her followers feared they would sometime or other revenge their Mothers death, and therefore she and Pheroras, Herod 's Brother practic'd against them, infusing into their father suspicion of them, as if they were not well affected towards him, but exclaimed greatly against the Authors of their Mothers death. Herod troubled hereat called to Court Antipater his eldest Son, begotten by him when he was a private man (whom he had banished the City in favor of these two Sons, only giving him liberty to come thither on Festival days ) that setting him up against them he might make them more careful of their behavior. But they were thereby the more incensed, and Antipater (making use of his time) got more and more into his Fathers affections, and at his entreaty brought to Court also his mother Doris, whom (being a woman of mean parentage Herod put away when he married Mariamne. )
Herod hearing that Agrippa, Caesar 's great friend, and Son-in-law, (having married Julia his daughter) was come into Asia, he went to him and invited him into Judea, and entertained him magnificently in all the Cities and Castles he had newly built, showing him his buildings, and presenting him and his friends with all the delights he could. Then conducting him to Jerusalem, all the Citizens met him in their best habit with joyful acclamations. Agrippa having sacrificed an Hecatomb to God, feasted the people; and the winter drawing on he made hast to sail to Ionia. As soon as it was spring Herod hearing that Agrippa was going with an Army to Bosphorus, made hast to go to him, he overtook him at Sinope a City in Pontus, bringing some Auxiliaries with him for his service. Agrippa embraced him with singular affection, and made him partaker of his Counsels. And afterwards in their return Agrippa was ready to gratify Herod in anything, and at his entreaty relieved the necessities of many that made use of his Intercession. He procured for the Jews that dwelt in Jonia a • onfirmation of the privileges formerly granted them (which the Grecians would not suffer them to enjoy) and that none should molest them for living after their Countries Laws. Then with mutual embraces they took their leaves each of other. Herod in few days arrived at Cesarea, and thence came to Jerusalem, where calling the people together, he gave them an account of his journey, and how he had procured liberty for the Ionian Jews, and to ingratiate himself the more with them, he declared he was willing to remit unto them the fourth part of their Tribute. The people exceedingly pleased herewith wished all happiness to the King.
Agrippa after ten years Government in Asia, being now to return to Rome, Herod went again to salute him, and take leave of him, and taking (of all his Sons) only Antipater with him, he delivered him to Agrippa to be brought to Caesar that he might by his means obtain the Emperor's favor. Antipater accordingly was much honored at Rome, being commended to several friends and great persons by his Fathers Letters. From thence he was not wanting by his Letters to whet his Fathers displeasure against his Brothers the Sons of Mariamne, and seemed very solicitous of his Fathers safety, though aiming at the succession thereby.
Herod being by these artifices exceedingly incensed against his two Sons Alexander and Aristobulus, sailed with them to Rome to accuse them before Caesar, and carried with him Nicholas Damascene in the same Ship, with whom he studied Philosophy. Augustus being gone to Aquileia, thither Herod went to him, and the young men being there accused before Caesar of an intention to poison their Father, they so cleared themselves and by their tears and other evidences so manifested their innocence, that Caesar reconciled them to their Father. Then after thanks returned to the Emperor, they departed and Antipater with them, feigning himself glad that they were received again into favor.
Herod having given three hundred Talents to Caesar, and been very liberal (as his custom was in all places) to the people of Rome, Caesar bestowed on him half the profits of the Mines of Cyprus, and gave him liberty to make which of his Sons he pleased his Successor; or if he would, to distribute his Kingdom among them all; which Herod presently would have done, but Caesar would not allow that he should part with the Government during his life. In Herod's absence the Inhabitants of Trachonitis (a considerable part of his Kingdom) rebelled, but were reduced again to obedience by his Captains. But some of them leaving their Country, fled into Arabia Nabataea, where they were entertained by Syllaeus the Administrator of the Kingdom (who was an enemy to Herod, because he denied him his Sister Salome to Wife) and he granted them a place well fortified.
Herod being returned into Judea, he called the Chief men of the Jews together, and told them what had passed in his late Voyage, and declared unto them, that his Sons should reign after him, first Antipater, then Alexander, and then Aristobulus, whom he had by Mariamne. Cesarea Stratonis was now finished in the 28th. year of his reign; for the Dedication of which, there were very solemn, and most pompous Preparations, Musicians, and Wrestlers, and Sword-Players, and Wild Beasts, and whatever was in account of that kind either at Rome, or in other Nations, being now brought thither. These sports were consecrated to Caesar, and to be renewed every fifth year. The day he spent in Sports, and the night in Banquets and Revelings, and so between both he spent his time very well.
After this, he began to build another Town in a Field called Capharsala, which after his Fathers name he called Antipatris, and a Castle, which after his Mothers name he called Cyprus. In honor also of his dead Brother he built a fair Town which he called Phasaelus in the valley of Jericho, from whence the Country thereabouts is called Phasaelis. Having wasted his wealth by his extravagant expenses, and now wanting money, after the example of John Hircanus, by night without the knowledge of the people, he opened David's Sepulcher, in which he found no money, but store of costly attire, and Ornaments of Gold, which he took away. After this 'twas observed, that his Family was grievously afflicted, nothing being heard among them but Broils and Accusations one of another.
As for Antipater, he accused and calumniated his Brother Alexander, insomuch that his Father committed him to Prison. Those of Trachonitis (who had fled to Syllaeus ) being increased in number, infested not only Judea, but Coelosyria also, with Inrodes and Incursions. Syllaeus is hereupon complained of by Herod to Saturnius and Volumnius, Presidents of Syria. Herod requires the 60 Talents which he had lent Obodas King of Arabia under Syllaeus 's Security; and demands also, That the Plunderers protected by him should be delivered up. The matter being debated before the Presidents, they determined, that Herod's demands were reasonable, and that Syllaeus should perform them. Syllaeus unwilling to stand this their Determination, went to Rome. The Presidents therefore gave Herod leave to enter Arabia with an Army, and to prosecute those obstinate people there; which he accordingly did, and suddenly took the Castle which those Plunderers kept. But an Arabian Captain with his forces coming to their aid, Herod joins Battle with him and overthrows him; the Captain himself being slain, and his forces routed. But Letters were speeded to Rome to Syllaeus, which represented things far otherwise, and aggravated everything in so odious a manner, that Caesar by those Lyes, and such false representations as Syllaeus had made unto him, was so incensed against Herod, that he wrote to him menacing Letters, because he had presumed to march with an Army out of his own Kingdom, and thrice denied his Ambassadors audience, that were sent by him to acquaint him with the true State of things. The Rebels and Arabians taking hold of this occasion, did him much mischief, which he was glad to put up for the present, for fear of further provoking Caesar, but sent Nicholas Damascenus to Rome to plead his cause, who so laid open Syllaeus 's Forgeries, and how he had circumvented the Emperor in the cause of Herod, that Caesar condemned Syllaeus, remanding him again into the Province, that when he had satisfied the Debt (before mentioned) he might be punished, and was perfectly reconciled to Herod.
Whilst Herod was thus out with Caesar, the former discords in his Family were exceedingly heightened by the Artifices of Eurichus a Lacedaemonian, who winding himself into Alexanders acquaintance, betrayed him first to Antipater, and then to Herod himself. Herod making inquiry into his Sons actions, put to death by the vehemency of Tortures, many both of his own and his Sons Friends. Alexander being examined, denied all Accusations, except that he intended with his Wife to fly to Archelaus King of Cappadocia her Father.
Herod sends Letters to Caesar complaining of his Sons, and desires his Imperial Majesty to give him direction what to do in that difficult affair. The Emperor returns answer, That he should call a Council at Beritus, and join with them the Presidents of Syria, and Archelaus King of Cappadocia, and other Noble men his Friends; and that they should together determine concerning that matter. Herod hereupon convened all those Caesar had appointed, (except only Archelaus ) to Berytus, and in an Assembly of 150 Men, declaimed most furiously against his Sons, not producing any Proof at all, more than that they intended to fly; and not suffering them to be present to answer for themselves. Saturninus who had been Consul, and had run through all honors, gave his opinion, that the Sons of Herod were to be condemned, but not to be put to death; and his three Sons were of the same opinion. But Volumnius declared, that they ought to be punished with death, whose opinion the major part followed. Then the King took his Sons along with him to Tyre, where an old Soldier named Tyro, smartly reprehended him for the severity intended towards his Sons. Alexander and Aristobulus being led to Sebaste, were there strangled by their Fathers command, and their bodies buried in the Castle Alexandrion, where Alexander their Grandfather by their Mothers side, and many others of their Progenitors were buried.
Antipater, after the death of his Brothers, began now to plot the Destruction of his Father, and drew Pheroras the Brother of Herod to his side, and some of the Kings Women that were most addicted to the Sect of the Pharisees, but not Salome who constantly adhered to her Brother Herod. The Pharisees had refused to swear fealty to the King, who being for this fined; the Wife of Pheroras paid their Fine, to whom in requital (they being accounted wise to know things to come) they foretold, that the Kingdom should be taken from Herod and his Children, and should be transferred on her, and that her Husband, and their Children. These things Salome made known to Herod, and they had solicited and corrupted many of his Courtiers with Bribes; in which fault Herod having taken some of the Pharisees, he put them to death, and some others also whom he found had conspired with them. Then he urged Pheroras to put away his Wife, which he refusing to do, he forbad Antipater Pheroras 's company.
Antipater, that he might remove all suspicion of his Father from him, procured by his Friends at Rome to be sent for thither by Caesar. He accordingly going, Herod sent by him great Presents and his Will, in which he declared, that Antipater should be King; but if he died, then Herod his Son by Mariamne daughter of Simon the High Priest.
Pheroras being banished into his Treachery, there fell sick; Herod visits him, and seeks help for him, but he died within a few days after, whose body was brought to Jerusalem, and there honourably buried by Herod.
Pheroras dying in this sickness, after his death his Wife was accused as if she had poisoned him. Herod inquiring into this matter, by little and little began to find out a treasonable Conspiracy of his Son Antipater against himself; namely, how that he going to Rome had delivered a deadly poison to Pheroras that was sent by Antiphilus (one of his Friends ) out of Egypt, to be given to the King in his absence, and that it was kept by Pheroras his Wife: She being examined, confessed the same, that it was committed to her charge; but added also how that her husband when sick, and when Herod came so kindly to visit him, was so overcome with his love, that he forbad her to give it him. Among the accessories of this Conspiracy was Herod's own Wife, the daughter of the High Priest. Hereupon Herod put her away (which was a great favor; he put others to death for a lesser matter) and deposed her Father from the Priesthood, and preferred Matthias the Son of Theophilus to his place, and put her Son Herod out of his Will, whom he had appointed his Successor, and put Doris also Antipaters Mother out of the Court, taking her Jewels from her. Not long after Bathillus the freed man of Antipater coming from Rome, being tortured, confessed, that he had brought with him a poison to deliver to Pheroras, wherewith the King might be certainly and speedily dispatched, in case the other should fail.
Antipater got some to write from Rome to his Father how Archelaus and Philip (Herod's two younger Sons that were at Rome to study ) often rubbed up the Sore of the Murder of Alexander and Aristobulus, pitying the misfortune of their innocent Brethren; and he when he wrote to his Father about them, as it were excusing them, would impute their speeches to their age.
During these things JESUS CHRIST the Son of God is born two years after the Wise men came to Herod to Jerusalem, and there are taught, that the Birthplace of Christ was at Bethlehem; they return no more to Herod, being so directed by God in a Dream. Herod being thus disappointed, killed all the Children that were at Bethlehem, and in all the Coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time of the Stars being first seen in the East, which he had learned from the Magi. Among which Children 'tis said, that a young Son of Herod's was one, which when Augustus heard of, he said, 'Twas better to be Herod's Hogg than his Son; for under pretence of Religion, he would not touch an Hogg, or eat Swines flesh, but made it no great difficulty to destroy his own Children. See Macrob. lib. 2. ch. 4.
Antipater all this while hears nothing of the death of Pheroras, or of those things that were ready to be alleged against him, but returns to Jerusalem ignorant of all these Passages. When he came thither, he entered the Palace in his Purple Garment which he was wont to wear, but the Guards at the Gates suffered none of his followers to enter in with him. When he addressed himself to his Father, he thrust him away from him with indignation, reproaching him with the murder of his Brethren, and his intention to poison his Father. It happened that Quintillius Varus President of Syria was now at Jerusalem. The next day therefore the King and Varus sitting in Judgment, Antipater was brought before them, and being not able to purge himself, all things being made so clear and evident, (and the poison itself produced, which being give to a condemned man, dispatched him immediately) hereupon he was committed to Prison; and Herod signified to Caesar by Letters all these matters, and also sent Ambassadors to him, who by word of mouth, might acquaint him more fully with this cursed Treason of Antipater.
Herod now falls sick, and in his sickness was exceeding impatient, but his Distemper was much increased by this accident. Judas the Son of Sariphaeus, and Matthias the Son of Margalothus (two of the most learned men among the Jews, and the best Interpreters of their Law.) hearing that the Kings sickness was incurable, persuaded some young men that were their Scholars, to throw down the Golden Eagle that was set up by Herod over the great Gate of the Temple. The young men accordingly went up at Noon-day, and with Axes hewed down the Eagle, a great multitude beholding it. Immediately, about forty of these young men were taken by the Captain of the Castle, and (together with their Masters) brought before Herod, where they confidently defending what they had done; he calling the Rulers of the Jews together, took away the High Priesthood from Matthias (as not altogether a stranger to this business ) and put Joazar into his place, the Brother of his Wife Mariamne the Daughter of Simon the High Priest. But he burned alive the other Matthias (that was a Promoter of this Sedition) and his Companions.
Then Herod's disease began to grow worse; for he burned with an inward heat, he was vexed with a ravenous and insatiable Appetite; he was tortured with Ulcers in his Bowels, and pains of the Cholick; His Feet swelled and his Thighs; his Body rotted, and was full of crawling Worms; to all which, he was troubled with Convulsions, and difficulty of breathing. He used all means possible for his Recovery, and was carried to the hot Baths beyond Jordan: Thence he returned to Jericho. Perceiving now that he must die, and supposing that the Jews would much rejoice in his death, by Proclamation he calls together from every place to Jericho, some of the most Noble of the Jews, and shuts up those of them that came in the Hippodrome, giving command to his Sister Salome, and her husband Alexas, that as soon as he was dead, they should cause all those Jews to be killed, that the people might have cause of Lamentation at his death, which otherwise he thought they would rejoice at. Before his death he received Letters from Caesar, that he might do with his Son Antipater as he pleased. Being afresh tormented with his distemper, he went to stab himself, but was prevented by those about him.
Antipater thinking his Father had been dead, began to tamper with his Keeper about his Liberty, that he might seize upon the Kingdom. But his Keeper went and revealed it to Herod, who was thereupon so enraged, that he commanded one of the Guard to go instantly and kill him, and that he should be buried in the Castle of Hircanion without any honor; which was done accordingly five days before Herod died. To such an end came he who had wrought the ruin of his Brethren, and had made such sad broils in his Fathers house.
Herod now makes a new Will, in which he leaves the Kingdom to Archelaus (his eldest Son by his second wife Mariamne). Herod Antipas he makes Tetrarch of Galilee and Petrea, or the Country beyond Jordan; Philip he makes Tetrarch of Trachonitis, Gaulonitis, Batanea (that is the Land called Basan ) and Paneada, nearer the heads of Jordan. To Salome his Sister he gave Jamnia, Azotus, and Phasaelis, and fifty thousand drachms; to several of his Kindred he gave money and yearly Pensions; and to Caesar and Livia his Wife he left great Legacies.
Herod having thus ordered matters five days after he had put Antipater to death he died himself about the 25th. of our November, having enjoyed the Kingdom 34 years from his Conquest over Antigonus, but 37 years from the time he was first made King by the Romans, and about the 70 year of his age. Solome and Alexas before the death of the King was known, discharged those Nobles that were shut up in the Hippodrome.
Then was the Kings death declared, and all the Soldiers called into the Theater at Jericho, and there they first read the Kings Letters to the Soldiers, in which giving them thanks for their fidelity and love to him, he desires them, that they would do the like for his Son Archelaus, whom he had appointed his Successor in the Kingdom. Then the Kings Testament was read; then was there a shout for joy that Archelaus was King; the people praying God to prosper him.
A Royal Funeral was prepared by Archelaus for his Father: The Body was carried in Funeral Pomp from Jericho to the Castle Herodion (where he himself had appointed it to be buried ) they going each day but Eight Furlongs, or an Italian Mile. It was carried in a Golden Litter set with precious Stones, Bearing-Cloth of Purple. The Body also was clothed with Purple, and a Diadem on his head, and a Scepter in his right hand, and over his head hung a Crown of Gold. His Son and Kindred marched about the Litter; then followed the Soldiers marshalled according to their several Nations; then 500 Servants bearing Perfumes.
The Ceremony of the Funeral being ended, Archelaus coming to Jerusalem, solemnized a Mourning for his Father seven days, according to the Jewish Custom, and at the end of the Mourning made a Funeral Banquet to the multitude. After this, going up to the Temple, and there sitting on a Golden Throne, he spake very graciously to the people, but withal said, He would not take upon him the name of King, till Caesar had confirmed his Fathers Testament.
Some BOOKS Printed for and Sold by Thomas Simmons at the Princes-Arms in Ludgate-street.
1. THE Lives of sundry Eminent Persons in this latter Age, in two Parts: I. Of Divines, viz. Mr. Hugh Broughton, Mr. Rob. Boid, Dr. • wiss, Mr. Tho. Wilson, Dr. Sam. Bolton, Mr. Richard Vines, Mr. Richard Blackerby, Mr. Ralph Robinson, Mr. John Janeway▪ Mr. John Machia, Dr. Sam. Winter, Mr. Tho. Tregoss, Mr. Rich. Mather, Mr. Joseph Allein, Dr. Staunton, Mr. Sam. Fairclough, Mr. Tho. Wadsworth, Mr. O. Stockton, and Mr. Tho. Gouge. To which are added some remarkable passages in the Lives and Deaths of divers Eminent Divines in the Church of Scotland, viz. Mr. John Scringer, Mr. Rob. Blair, Mr. Andr. Steward, Mr. John Welch, Mr. Hugh Kennedy, Mr. Rob. Bruce, Mr. Davidson, and Mr. Patr. Simpson. Together with an account of several Providences strange and extraordinary. II. Of Nobility and Gentry of both Sexes, viz. Sir Phil. Sidney, Sir Charles Coot, Mr. John Lamot, Sir N. Bernardiston, Mr. John Rowe, Sir Mat. Hale, Mrs. Mary Gunter, Lady Alice Lucy, Lady Mary Vere, Mrs. Kath. Clark, Countess of Warwick, Mrs. Marg. Baxter, Lady Armine, Lady Langham, and Countess of Suffolk, by Samuel Clark, sometimes Pastor of Bennet-Fink, London. To which is added the Life of the Author. In Folio.
2. Church-History of the Government of Bishops and their Councils, abbreviated, including the chief part of the Government of Christian Princes and Popes, and a true account of the most troubling Controversies and Heresies till the Reformation. By Richard Baxter a Hater of false History. In Quarto.
3. A Treatise of Episcopacy confuting by Scripture, Reason, and the Churches Testimony, that sort of Diocesan Churches, Prelacy and Government which casteth out the Primitive Church Species, Episcopacy, Ministry and Discipline, and confounds the Christian World by corruption, Usurpation, Schism and Persecution. Meditated in the year 1640, when the Et caetera Oath was imposed; written 1671, and cast by. Published 1680 by the importunity of our Superiors, who demand the Reasons of our Nonconformity. By Rich. Baxter. In Quarto.
4. Forgetfulness of God the great Plague of man's heart, and Consideration of the principal means to cure it. By W.D. M.A. and once fellow of Kings Col. Cambridge.
5. Londinum Triumphans, or an Historical Account of the grand influence the Actions of the City of London have had upon the affairs of the Nation for many ages past. Showing the antiquities, honor, glory and renown of this famous City; the grounds of her rights, privileges and franchises, the foundation of her Charter, the improbability of its forfeiture or seisure; the power and strength of the Citizens, and the several contests that have been betwixt the Magistracy and the Commonalty. Collected from the most authentic Authors, and illustrated with variety of remarks worthy the perusal of every Citizen. By Will. Gough, Gent. In Octavo.
6. The five days Debate at Cicero 's house in Tusculum, 1. Upon Comforts against Death: 2. Patience under pain. 3. The cure of Discontent. 4. The Government of the Passions. 5. The chief end of man. Between Master and Sophister. In Oct.
7. The Samaritan, showing that many and unnecessary Impositions are not the oil that must heal the Church; together with the way or means to do it. By a Country-Gentleman, who goes to Common-Prayer, and not to Meetings. In Octavo.
8. A Private Psalter, or Manual of Devotion, composed by a Minister under the apprehension of the Stone; which may serve for all Christians, with the omission of any such petition which is peculiar or not suitable, and the addition of others as are suitable to every ones proper condition. In Octavo.
9. Magna Charta made in the ninth year of King Henry the Third, and confirmed by King Edward the First in the 28th. year of his Reign. With some short but necessary observations from the L. Chief Justice Cook 's Comments upon it. Faithfully translated for the benefit of those that do not understand the Latin. By Edw. Cook of the Middle-Temple, Esq In Octavo.
10. The Plea of the Children of Believing Parents, for their interest in Abraham 's Covenant, their right to Church-membership with their Parents, and consequently their title to Baptism. The cause of publishing this Discourse after so many Learned men have labored in this Province is declared in the Preface to the Reader. By Giles Firmin. In Octavo.
11. The Traveler's Guide, and the Countries safety: Being a Declaration of the Laws of England against Highway men, or Robbers upon the Road; what is necessary and requisite to be done by such persons as are robbed in order to the recovering of their damages, against whom they are to bring their action, and the manner how it ought to be brought. Illustrated with variety of Law-Cases, Historical Remarks, Customs, Usages, Antiquities and Authentic Authorities. In Twelves.
12. The Right Honorable Pourtray'd, or the Vizard taken off pretenders, with persuasive reasons to allure the will, and reduce men's actions to obtain the Title, as also a set boundary to the Honor of Saints departed. By Samuel Gilbert. In 12 s.
13. De Analogia, sive Art Latinae Linguae Commentariolus, in quo omnia, etiam reconditioris Grammaticae, Elementa, ration nova tractantur, & ad brevissimos Canones rediguntur. In usum Provectioris adolescentiae. Opera Wilhelmi Baxteri, Philistoris. In Octavo.
14. A Modest Answer to Dr. Stillingfleet 's Irenicum. By a Learned Pen. In Octavo.
15. A Peaceable Resolution of Conscience, touching our present Impositions, wherein Loyalty and Obedience are proposed and settled upon their true foundation in Scripture, Reason, and the Constitution of this Kingdom against all resistance of the present Powers; and for compliance with the Laws so far as may be in order to union. With a Draught or Specimen of a Bill for Accommodation. In Octavo.
16. Patriarcha non Monarcha: The Patriarch Unmonarch'd; being Observations on a late Treatise, and divers other Miscellanies, Published under the name of Sir Rob. Filmer Baronet: In which the falseness of those opinions that would make Monarchy Jure Divino are laid down, and the true Principles of Government and Property (especially in our Kingdom) asserted. By a Lover of Truth and of his Country. In Octavo.
17. Moral Prognostications: (1) What shall befall the Churches on Earth till their concord, by the restitution of their Primitive purity, simplicity and charity: (2) How that restitution is like to be made (if ever) and what shall befall them thenceforth unto the end, in that Golden Age of Love. Written by Rich. Baxter, when by the Kings Commission we in vain treated for Concord, 1661, and now published 1680. In Quarto.
18. The Lively Effigies of the Reverend Mr. Matthew Pool, so well performed as to represent his true Idea, to all that knew him, or had a veneration for him; designed on purpose to befriend those that would prefix it to his Synopsis Criticorum. Price 6 d.
19. The Lively Effigies of Sir Edmundbury Godfrey, who was barbarously murdered by the Papist, 1678. Price 6 d.
20. The Genealogy of the Kings of England from William the Conqueror to his present Majesty King Charles the Second, with their Atchievements truly Blazon'd, all well Engraven upon a large Broad-side.
21. The History of the Successions of the Kings of England from Canutus the first Monarch, giving a brief account of their Birth, Coronation, length of Reign, manner of their death and burials, with their Queens and Children, in folio. Price stitcht 1 s. —6 d.
22. Memorabilia, or the most remarkable Passages and Counsels collected out of the several Declarations and Speeches that have been made by the King, his Lord Chancellors and Keepers, and the Speakers of the Honorable House of Commons in Parliament since his Majesty's happy Restauration, Anno 1666, till the end of the last Parliament 1680; reduced under four heads, viz. of the Protestant Religion: 2. Of Popery: 3. Of Liberty and Property, &c. 4. Of Parliaments. By Edward Cook of the Inner Temple, Esq Humbly Dedicated to the Grand Council or Senate of this Kingdom. In Folio. Price stitcht 3 s.
23. An Historical Account of the wonderful Cures wrought by Scarbrough Spaw, on several Persons afflicted with the Scurvy, Stone, Jaundice, Dropsy▪ &c. Together with an Account of many strange Rarities of Nature found at Scarbrough. By Will. Simpson, Med. D. In Twelves, Price 1 s.