Biblical Context:
The event of Jesus being brought before Herod Antipas is recorded in the Gospel of Luke. This episode occurs during the Passion narrative, after Jesus' arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane and His subsequent trials before the Jewish authorities and Pontius Pilate. Herod Antipas, the tetrarch of Galilee and Perea, was in Jerusalem at the time, likely for the Passover festival.

Scriptural Account:
In Luke 23:6-12, we read about Jesus being sent to Herod by Pilate. Pilate, upon learning that Jesus was a Galilean and thus under Herod's jurisdiction, saw an opportunity to pass the responsibility of judgment. The Berean Standard Bible recounts this event as follows:

"When Pilate heard this, he asked if the man was a Galilean. And learning that Jesus was under Herod’s jurisdiction, he sent Him to Herod, who himself was in Jerusalem at that time. When Herod saw Jesus, he was greatly pleased, because for a long time he had wanted to see Him. From what he had heard about Him, he hoped to see Him perform a sign of some sort. He plied Him with many questions, but Jesus gave him no answer. The chief priests and the scribes were standing there, vehemently accusing Him. Then Herod and his soldiers ridiculed and mocked Him. Dressing Him in a fine robe, they sent Him back to Pilate. That day Herod and Pilate became friends—before this they had been enemies."

Historical and Theological Significance:
Herod Antipas, son of Herod the Great, is a significant political figure in the New Testament. Known for his role in the execution of John the Baptist, Herod's encounter with Jesus is marked by curiosity rather than hostility. Herod's desire to see Jesus perform a miracle reflects a superficial interest in Jesus' ministry, contrasting with the deeper spiritual implications of Jesus' mission.

Theologically, Jesus' silence before Herod fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah 53:7, which speaks of the suffering servant who "did not open His mouth." This silence can be interpreted as a demonstration of Jesus' sovereignty and fulfillment of His role as the Messiah, who would suffer unjustly yet remain obedient to the will of the Father.

Political Dynamics:
The interaction between Herod and Pilate highlights the complex political dynamics of the time. Herod's mocking of Jesus and his decision to send Him back to Pilate underscores the political maneuvering and lack of genuine justice in the trial of Jesus. The newfound friendship between Herod and Pilate, forged through their mutual involvement in Jesus' trial, illustrates the political expediency that often overshadowed moral and ethical considerations.

Cultural and Social Implications:
Herod's treatment of Jesus, including the mockery and the dressing in a fine robe, reflects the cultural practices of humiliation and scorn for those perceived as impostors or threats to authority. This act of mockery is a precursor to the further humiliation Jesus would endure on the way to the crucifixion.

Reflection on Jesus' Mission:
The episode before Herod is a poignant reminder of the rejection and misunderstanding Jesus faced throughout His ministry. Despite Herod's curiosity, he fails to recognize Jesus' true identity and mission. This encounter serves as a microcosm of the broader rejection Jesus experienced from the political and religious leaders of His time, ultimately leading to His crucifixion and the fulfillment of His redemptive work.