LUKE 23:6–12
JESUS BEFORE HEROD
Text – Luke 23:6–12
6 On hearing this Pilate asked if the man was a Galilean;
7 and upon learning that he was under Herod’s jurisdiction, he sent him to Herod, who was himself in Jerusalem at that time.
8 Herod was very glad to see Jesus; he had been wanting to see him for a long time, for he had heard about him and had been hoping to see him perform some sign.
9 He questioned him at length, but he gave him no answer.
10 The chief priests and scribes, meanwhile, stood by accusing him harshly.
11 Even Herod and his soldiers treated him with contempt and mocked him; then he put a resplendent garment on him and sent him back to Pilate.
12 Herod and Pilate became friends that very day, even though they had been enemies formerly.
Historical and Jewish Context
Herod Antipas, tetrarch of Galilee and Perea, was the ruler who had earlier imprisoned and executed John the Baptist. Since Jesus was a Galilean, Pilate sends Him to Herod to avoid responsibility and to respect jurisdictional boundaries. Herod’s curiosity is superficial; he seeks entertainment and signs rather than truth. Jesus’ silence fulfills the image of the suffering servant and exposes the emptiness of Herod’s authority, which relies on mockery rather than justice.
Catholic Theological Perspective
Jesus’ silence before Herod reveals the dignity of divine truth before frivolous power. Catholic theology understands this silence not as weakness but as judgment: truth does not argue with hardened hearts. Herod represents a conscience dulled by sin and curiosity without conversion. By being mocked and clothed in a splendid robe, Jesus is ironically proclaimed King, prefiguring the paradox of the Cross where humiliation becomes exaltation (CCC 572).
Parallels in Scripture
Is 53:7 – The servant remains silent before his accusers.
Lk 9:7–9 – Herod’s earlier curiosity about Jesus.
Mk 6:17–29 – Herod’s role in the death of John the Baptist.
Ps 2:1–2 – Rulers unite against the Lord and His Anointed.
Phil 2:6–11 – Humiliation leading to exaltation.
Key Terms
Herod Antipas – Tetrarch who ruled Galilee and mocked Christ.
Silence – Christ’s response to unbelief and mockery.
Mockery – Human contempt that unknowingly proclaims divine kingship.
Resplendent Garment – Ironical symbol of Christ’s royal dignity.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This passage is proclaimed during Holy Week to invite reflection on Christ’s silent suffering. The Church meditates on Jesus mocked yet faithful, reminding the faithful that discipleship may involve ridicule and rejection without immediate vindication.
Conclusion
Jesus stands silent before Herod, refusing to entertain unbelief. Mocked and dismissed, He reveals the emptiness of worldly power and the quiet strength of divine obedience. Even contempt becomes part of God’s saving plan.
Reflection
Do I seek Jesus for truth or merely for signs and comfort?
Am I able to remain faithful and dignified when misunderstood or mocked?
Christ invites me to trust God’s purpose even in silence and humiliation.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, silent before mockery and contempt, teach me humility and trust. Help me to seek You with a sincere heart and to remain faithful when Your truth is rejected. Amen.