Machaerus was one of the desert fortresses built by Macabbes and later again by King Herod when ruling over Judea. According to first century historian Josephus, this is also the fortress where John the Baptist was imprisoned, and beheaded. In 2018, Erick and I visited the site. We reviewed the site’s history, archaeology, and special role in the formation of Christianity.
Machaerus and the New Testament
Both the gospels and Josephus testify that this happened after John the Baptist rebuked the king for his inappropriate relationship with his brother’s wife, Herodias. In response, Antipas had John jailed in his palace of Machaerus. During his imprisonment, Herodias plotted to have her daughter, Princess Salome, perform a sensual dance in front of the king during his birthday celebrations. The king was so enthralled by her appearance that he declared to provide her with whatever she desired. On the advice of her mother, Salome asked for John’s head on a platter. The king fulfilled her wish, and so John the Baptist was beheaded.
Despite the cruel execution, John’s death led to the unification of the followers of John with the followers of Christ. In retrospect, the execution of John the Baptist in Machaerus was an important event that led to the formation of the early Christian Church.
Touring Machaerus
