Herod purchases Egyptian grain for famine relief
About this date: Placed within the same approximate famine window; not a separate precisely dated famine.
Josephus credits Herod with selling palace valuables and purchasing Egyptian grain. The account describes food distribution and practical help for people unable to prepare bread.
Historical context
The relief depends on a connection with Egypt's prefect. The episode shows royal resources and international supply arrangements operating during a crisis.
Key points
- Palace gold and silver are converted into purchasing funds.
- Petronius assists with grain purchase and export.
- The account also describes seed supplies and aid beyond Herod's immediate population.
People
- Herod the Great
- Petronius, prefect of Egypt
Sources and further reading
- Jewish Antiquities, Book XV
Purchase, preparation, distribution, and agricultural recovery aid.