The answer is: Herod

Matt 2:16

Ah, the infamous Herod! When we explore the story of the baby Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew, we step into a perilous period marked by fear and jealousy. King Herod, known as Herod the Great, was an ambitious ruler famous for his architectural projects and reign of terror. His paranoia about losing power made him a formidable opponent to anyone perceived as a threat—especially a prophesied “King of the Jews” like Jesus.

In Matthew 2:16, we read that Herod, after being tricked by the Magi, ordered the slaughter of innocent children in Bethlehem, casting a terrible shadow over the Christmas narrative. This even draws chilling parallels to other ancient tales of kings fearing the loss of their thrones, such as Pharaoh's decree during Moses' infancy. Both stories highlight the vulnerability of a newborn champion against the backdrop of egocentric rulers.

Herod's ruthless decree unwittingly fulfills the prophecy from Jeremiah 31:15 about Rachel weeping for her children, echoing suffering and distress throughout Israel’s history. It serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by those who embark on a positive and revolutionary journey, foreshadowing Jesus’ later ministry which would confront not only spiritual blindness but also systemic injustice.

This bleak moment couldn’t overshadow the hopeful narrative of the divine promise. Despite Herod's sinister actions, the true fulfillment of God’s plans remains uncontested, illustrating resilience and hope amidst despair. Truly, the story is not just about birth but the overcoming of tyranny through humility and goodness.