The answer is: Herod

Matt 2:16 - Herod was threatened by a rival who was to be a future King of the Jews and sought to kill him to remove the threat to his throne.

So, picture this: a baby has just been born in Bethlehem, and instead of gifts, this little one is causing panic at the highest levels of power. King Herod was no ordinary ruler; he was known for his paranoia and ruthlessness. When he heard from the wise men about the birth of a "King of the Jews," it sent him into a tailspin.

Herod's actions reflect a key moment in history where fear dictated decisions. But did you know that this wasn't the first time leaders have felt threatened by perceived rivals? Throughout history, we find kings, empires, and even community leaders taking drastic measures to ensure their rule remained unchallenged. This story aligns somewhat with several biblical echoes of insecurity among leaders. Think David and Saul: Saul was similarly driven to unhealthy behaviors out of fear of David’s rising popularity.

There’s also something beautiful and ironic in Herod’s attempt to eliminate a child who would ultimately teach love, compassion, and acceptance. The contrast couldn’t be starker! While the magi were guided by a star to find the savior, Herod was plotting dark schemes, forgetting that power built on fear has its foundations in sand. This tension between divine goodness and human suspicion frames much of Jesus' narrative, reminding us that monumental shifts often start with humble beginnings, threatening to upend existing orders and limitations.