King Herod (Herod the Great) died in Jericho around 4 BCE after a prolonged, extremely painful illness. Historians consider his death the result of natural causes, though the exact disease is debated.

Ancient accounts

The main ancient source, the Jewish historian Josephus, describes Herod suffering from severe pain, putrefying illness, breathing and intestinal problems, intense itching, and gangrenous decay before his death in Jericho. He was in such agony that he allegedly attempted suicide near the end of his life, but the attempt failed and he died soon after.

Modern medical views

Modern medical researchers analyzing Josephus’ symptom list have suggested that Herod likely had chronic kidney disease complicated by a severe genital infection (often identified as Fournier’s gangrene), which could account for the itching, abdominal pain, breathing issues, and tissue decay. Other scholarly references emphasize that he died of natural causes in great physical and mental disorder, with arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) cited as an underlying condition.

Time and place of death

Most historians place Herod’s death in 4 BCE, shortly after a lunar eclipse mentioned by Josephus and before Passover that year. He died at Jericho, after unsuccessfully seeking relief at hot springs and then returning there, and was later buried at the fortress-palace of Herodium.