What was Herod the Great known for during his reign?

Herod the Great is primarily known for the deeply troubling act of ordering the Massacre of the Innocents, which involved the killing of all male children two years old and under in Bethlehem. This event is recorded in the Gospel of Matthew and is tied to his efforts to eliminate Jesus, whom he viewed as a threat to his power. This infamy has overshadowed his many building projects and political maneuvers, marking him as a significant yet controversial figure in history.

While Herod is often associated with significant construction projects, including the expansion of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, the specific event of the massacre is more prominently highlighted in biblical narratives. Additionally, he did not have a direct role in appointing the Apostle Paul, whose relationship with the early church developed significantly after Herod's time. The notion of launching a rebellion against Rome is also not attributed to him, as Herod’s reign was characterized more by appeasement and collaboration with Roman authority rather than direct opposition.