Context and Background

The event of Jesus being sent to Herod is a significant moment in the Passion narrative, occurring during the trials of Jesus before His crucifixion. This episode is recorded in the Gospel of Luke, specifically in Luke 23:6-12. It takes place after Jesus' arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane and His initial trial before the Jewish Sanhedrin. The Jewish leaders, seeking a death sentence, bring Jesus to Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor of Judea, as they lack the authority to execute capital punishment.

Biblical Account

Upon hearing that Jesus is a Galilean, Pilate seizes the opportunity to send Him to Herod Antipas, the tetrarch of Galilee, who was in Jerusalem at the time. Luke 23:6-7 states, "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."

Herod Antipas, the son of Herod the Great, ruled over Galilee and Perea. Known for his role in the execution of John the Baptist, Herod had long been curious about Jesus, having heard of His miracles and teachings. Luke 23:8 notes, "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."

Herod's Interaction with Jesus

Herod's encounter with Jesus is marked by a mixture of curiosity and mockery. Despite Herod's desire to witness a miracle, Jesus remains silent and does not perform any signs. Luke 23:9 records, "Herod questioned Him at great length, but Jesus gave no answer." This silence fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah 53:7, which describes the Messiah as being oppressed and afflicted, yet not opening His mouth.

Herod, along with his soldiers, treats Jesus with contempt. They mock Him, dressing Him in a splendid robe, likely to ridicule His claim to kingship. Luke 23:11 states, "And Herod and his soldiers ridiculed and mocked Him. Dressing Him in a fine robe, they sent Him back to Pilate."

Political Implications

The interaction between Pilate and Herod during Jesus' trial has political undertones. Luke 23:12 reveals, "That day Herod and Pilate became friends; before this time they had been enemies." This newfound alliance suggests that the handling of Jesus' case served to reconcile previous tensions between the two rulers, possibly due to shared interests in maintaining order and authority in the region.

Theological Significance

The episode of Jesus being sent to Herod highlights several theological themes. Firstly, it underscores the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah's suffering and silence before His accusers. Secondly, it illustrates the rejection of Jesus by both Jewish and Gentile authorities, emphasizing His role as the suffering servant who bears the sins of humanity. Lastly, the mockery and scorn Jesus endures foreshadow the greater humiliation and suffering He will face on the cross, demonstrating His willingness to endure shame for the sake of humanity's redemption.

Conclusion

The account of Jesus being sent to Herod is a pivotal moment in the Passion narrative, reflecting the political, social, and theological dynamics at play during the final hours of Jesus' earthly ministry. Through this encounter, the Gospel of Luke presents a profound portrayal of Jesus' steadfastness and fulfillment of His redemptive mission.