Book of Matthew - Chapter 2 - Verse 7

When King Herod learned of the birth of Jesus from the wise men who had seen the star in the East, he called them privately to inquire about the exact time the star had appeared. This seemingly innocuous question was actually a cunning attempt by Herod to ascertain the age of Jesus and pinpoint his exact location. Herod, feeling threatened by the news of a newborn king, wanted to eliminate any potential rivals to his throne. By asking about the timing of the star's appearance, Herod hoped to determine the age of the child and thus narrow down his search. This deceitful act reveals Herod's true intentions and sets the stage for the tragic events that will soon unfold in the biblical narrative. It also serves as a warning about the dangers of jealousy and the lengths to which some will go to maintain their power and control.

Herod's actions in Matthew 2:7 are significant in the theological interpretation of the passage. By privately calling the wise men and inquiring about the exact time the star appeared, Herod's behavior reflects a sense of urgency and secrecy. This highlights the malicious intent behind his supposed interest in locating the newborn Jesus, as he sought to eliminate any potential threat to his reign. The word "privily" in this verse underscores the deceitful nature of Herod's actions, indicating his cunning and manipulative character.

Furthermore, the word "diligently" used to describe Herod's inquiry suggests a keen interest and thorough investigation into the matter. This word study sheds light on Herod's determination to gather as much information as possible in order to carry out his sinister plans. His meticulous approach reveals the depth of his paranoia and fear of losing power, driving him to extreme measures to maintain control. Ultimately, this verse serves as a cautionary tale of the dangers of pride and jealousy, as Herod's actions lead to tragic consequences for the innocent lives caught in his pursuit of self-preservation.