LUKE 9:7–9
HEROD’S PERPLEXITY ABOUT JESUS
Text – Luke 9:7–9
7 Herod the tetrarch heard about all that was happening, and he was greatly perplexed because some were saying, “John has been raised from the dead”;
8 others were saying, “Elijah has appeared”; still others, “One of the ancient prophets has arisen.”
9 But Herod said, “John I beheaded. Who then is this about whom I hear such things?” And he kept trying to see him.
Historical and Jewish Context
Herod Antipas, son of Herod the Great, ruled Galilee and Perea as a Roman client ruler. His guilty conscience over executing John the Baptist (Mt 14:1–12; Mk 6:14–29) heightened his fear when reports about Jesus reached him. Jewish expectations included the return of Elijah before the Messiah (Mal 3:23), and many believed prophets could rise again in times of crisis. Herod’s desire “to see” Jesus is not faith but curiosity mixed with anxiety, typical of rulers threatened by prophetic truth.
Catholic Theological Perspective
Herod symbolizes the divided and fearful conscience that cannot welcome God’s revelation. Jesus’ identity—as more than a prophet, the Son of God—confounds worldly power. The speculation that Jesus might be John or Elijah highlights how the people sensed divine intervention yet did not fully understand the mystery of Christ. Herod’s inability to recognize Jesus contrasts with the humble who receive Him with faith. His reaction foreshadows his later encounter with Jesus during the Passion (Lk 23:8–11), where he again fails to respond with conversion.
Parallels in Scripture
Mt 14:1–2 – Herod attributes Jesus’ works to John risen from the dead.
Mk 6:14–16 – Similar perplexity and fear in Herod’s conscience.
Mal 3:23 – Expectation of Elijah’s return.
Lk 23:8–11 – Herod finally meets Jesus but mocks Him.
Jn 1:21 – The people question John about Elijah and the prophets.
Key Terms
Perplexed – Disturbed and morally troubled, not merely confused.
Elijah – Expected forerunner of the Messiah.
Prophet arisen – Recognition that God was acting anew in Israel.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This passage appears in weekday liturgies, inviting reflection on human responses to Christ. It warns against superficial curiosity and highlights the need for conversion. It also deepens the Church’s Advent themes—expectation, recognition of the Messiah, and the contrast between worldly power and divine revelation.
Conclusion
Herod hears the truth but does not receive it. Jesus’ works force a question—“Who is this?”—that demands faith, not fear. While many speculate about Jesus, the true answer will be revealed in His Passion, Resurrection, and the Church’s witness.
Reflection
Do I seek Jesus with faith or only with curiosity? Herod wanted to “see” signs but not change his life. The Gospel invites me to approach Christ not with hesitation but with openness of heart, ready to follow the truth no matter the cost.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, help me to seek You with sincere faith. Free my heart from fear, confusion, and half-hearted curiosity. Grant me the grace to recognize You in Your Word, Your sacraments, and Your people, and to respond with true conversion. Amen.