![[800px-Christ_Healing_the_Paralytic_-_Dura-Europos_circa_232.jpg]] *Fresco from Syrian city Dura Europos, c. 235, called The Healing of the Paralytic, may be the oldest surviving depiction of Jesus* After Herod's death, his kingdom was split between his sons Herod Antipas and Archelaus, but the latter was deposed in 6 CE and Judea became a Roman province under prefects like Pontius Pilate (r. 26-36 CE). Direct Roman administration increased tensions even more. In this climate, a charismatic preacher named Jesus began spreading a message of peace, love, and social justice; declaring that the "Kingdom of God" was at hand. This message resonated with many in Galilee and later Judea and Jerusalem, which frightened some Jewish leaders. Pilate was well known for his ruthlessness. Around 36 CE, he had attacked a pilgrimage of Samaritans to a sacred mountain and had massacred unarmed people he had suspected of plotting a revolt. Caiaphas, the high priest, who had been appointed by the Romans to maintain order among his people, reportedly said it was better for one man to die than for the whole people to be wiped out. ----- Next: [[7.15 - Crucifixion]] Back: [[7.13 - Levantine Unrest]]