An earthquake disrupts Judea during Herod's war
About this date: Josephus associates the earthquake with Actium and Herod's seventh regnal year.
Josephus describes collapsing houses and heavy losses in Judea while Herod's army is encamped outside. The disaster affects morale during conflict with the Nabataeans.
Historical context
The event places environmental shocks alongside political and military pressures before the New Testament period.
Key points
- The narrative distinguishes damage at home from the army's situation.
- Reports of devastation influence the opposing side's confidence.
- Herod's speech is part of Josephus's crafted account.
People
- Herod the Great
Sources and further reading
- Jewish Antiquities, Book XV
Actium setting, earthquake, and military response.