In what city did King Herod live?

King Herod, often depicted as the villain in the Christmas story, ruled from his majestic seat in Jerusalem, where his reign stretched from 37 BC to 4 BC. Known for his architectural marvels—such as the grand expansion of the Second Temple—Jerusalem was not just a political hub; it pulsed with religious significance. Here's a little trivia to add flavor: Did you know homemade bakery goods called "Herodian cookies" are said to echo the time of Herod, drawing connections between the luxuries of his palace and the divine, raw wonder of the event happening in a humble manger just a few miles away?

Matthew's narrative emphasizes how his temple, a beacon of Jewish worship and hope, coexisted with Herod's paranoia and violent determination to cling to power. When men from the East—often referred to as the Magi—arrived in Jerusalem seeking the newborn king, they unintentionally brought alarm, both to Herod and the city's inhabitants. Their quest reflects an age-old human curiosity and a unity echoing through scripture, hinting that even during power struggles and political intrigue, a universal longing for divine presence remains potent.

Furthermore, consider the stark contrast between Herod's lavish court and the sparsely-stocked stable in Bethlehem, where Jesus was born. This juxtaposition serves as a profound reminder that spiritual royalty often arises in the most unexpected of places, shining brightly against the shadows of earthly power and greed.