In an Othello-like rage, Herod even ordered the execution of the woman he loved most—his second wife, Mariamne—believing that she had committed adultery. Herod's eldest son and heir apparent ...

But there are more-personal betrayals, too: When Mariamne, Herod’s second wife, is accused of conspiring to murder him, she stands trial and then is executed. Attempted murder is sufficient for ...

Herod was therefore not in a secure position and was paranoid about having his power stolen. He killed anyone suspected of plotting against him, including his favourite wife and three of his sons.