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Ἀρχέλαος (Archelaos)

Archelaos

Archelaus

G0745 · Greek · New Testament · 1 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The name Archelaus means "prince of the people," combining words for rule and crowd. In the New Testament, it refers to Herod Archelaus, son of Herod the Great, who inherited Judaea, Samaria, and Idumea after his father’s death in 4 BC.

Matthew 2:22 mentions him as the ruler whose tyranny caused Joseph to avoid returning to Bethlehem. Historical records confirm that Archelaus ruled with harshness, leading Jewish leaders to appeal to Rome. Emperor Augustus deposed him in AD 6, sending him into exile where he died.

This brief mention highlights the political instability of Judea during Jesus’ childhood. The name itself contrasts sharply with his actual governance, as his subjects did not view him as a benevolent prince but as an oppressive ruler.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The name Archelaus means "prince of the people," yet history records him as an oppressive ruler who was eventually deposed by Rome. In Matthew 2:22, we see Joseph feeling fear at the news that this harsh man now held power in Judea. This moment highlights the real political dangers facing Jesus’ family during their early years.

God’s protection often works through unexpected means, such as a dream warning Joseph to avoid Judea and move to Galilee instead. We can trust that God guides our steps even when leaders are unjust or situations seem unsafe. His care ensures that the Messiah grows in peace, away from the reach of tyrants.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • Archelaus1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • Ἀρχέλαος1×

Key Verses

  • Matthew 2:22
    But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judea in the place of his father, Herod, he was afraid to go there. Being warned in a dream, he withdrew into the region of Galilee,

    This verse records Joseph’s fear and subsequent move to Galilee because Archelaus ruled Judea with harshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Archelaus in the Bible?

Archelaus was the son of Herod the Great who ruled Judea after his father’s death. He is mentioned in Matthew 2:22 as the ruler Joseph feared, leading the holy family to settle in Galilee instead.

What does the name Archelaus mean?

The name means "prince of the people." However, historical records show he was an oppressive leader who was deposed by Rome for his harsh governance, contrasting with the meaning of his name.

Why did Joseph move to Galilee?

Joseph heard that Archelaus ruled Judea and was afraid to return there. Following a dream warning, he withdrew to Galilee to keep Jesus safe from this dangerous political climate.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

Matthew 1 verse
Matthew 2:22

But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judea in the place of his father, Herod, he was afraid to go there.…