The Annals of the World, History 2 · Age of the world 7 (1 of 2)
The Seventh Age of the World.
JESUS CHRIST the Son of GOD, in the fulnesse of time was born of the most blessed Virgin Mary, at Bethlehem, [Matt. 1. 25. & II. 1, 5. Gal. IV. 4.] whom she rolled in swadling-cloaths, and laid in a manger, because there was no room in the Inne, [Luke, II. 7.]
The Nativity of our Saviour is revealed by an Angel of the Lord to Shepherds keeping their flock by night in the neighbour-fields, which word a multitude of the Heavenly Host receiving, prayed for glory to God, peace to the Earth, and good will to Men. The Shepherds making haste to Bethlehem, found Mary and Joseph, and the Child lying in the manger, and they published that that was told them concerning the Child, and they returned praising and glorifying God, [Luke, II. 8, 20.]
The Child is circumcised the eighth day after his Nativity; and his name is called Jesus, which was so declared by the Angel, before he was conceived in the womb, [Luke, II. 21.]
The Wisemen from the East, The Julian Period. 4710 the Star being their guide, Year before Christ 4 coming to Herod to Jerusalem, and there being taught that the Birth-place of Christ was Bethlehem of Judea, they went thither, and entring into the house which was shewed them by the Star that stood over it, they found the little Child and Mary his Mother, and falling down worshipped him, and having opened their Treasures, they offered unto him, Gold, Franckincense, and Myrrhe; then being warned of God in a dream, that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own Country another way, [Mat. II. 1, 12.]
The fortieth day after her delivery, Mary goeth to Jerusalem to the Temple, both that she might present him to the Lord, according to the Law of the First-borne, and also that she might offer for her self a pair of Turtle Doves, or two young Pigeons, (she being in that condition of poverty that she could not offer a Lamb) according to the Law of them that had laine in, [Luke, II. 22, 23, 24, 27. with Leviticus, XII. 2, 3, 4, 6, 8,]
When his Parents brought the Child Jesus into the Temple, to do for him after the custom of the Law, there came into the Temple Simeon of Jerusalem, to whom it was revealed by God, that he should not die before he had seen the anointed of the Lord: whom he took in his arms and praised the Lord, speaking prophesies both of Christ himself, and his Mother. In the same moment also, came Anna a Prophetesse the daughter of Phanuel, she also openly acknowledged the Lord, and spake of him to all that looked for redemption in Jerusalem, [Luke, II. 25, 38.]
When Joseph and Mary had performed all things, according to the Law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, unto their own City Nazareth, [Luke, II. 39.]
The Angel of the Lord appearing to Joseph in a dream, warneth him of his flight into Egypt, that he might provide for the life of the Child, and escape the devices of Herod. Who being awakened, took the young Child and his Mother by night, and departed into Egypt, where he remained until the death of Herod, [Matth. II. 13, 14, 15.]
Herod thinking the young Child had been still at Bethlehem, that he might destroy him amongst the rest, killed all the children which were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time (of the Star first seen in the East) that he had enquired of the Wisemen, [Matt. II. 16.]
Herod having received letters from Antipater from Rome, in which he signified to him, that having despatched all his businesse according to his own mind, he would in short time return into his own Country again: writes to him back again dissembling his anger, that he should make haste, lest something might happen to him thorough his absence that he should not like of, and also modestly complaining of his mother, promised that he would remit all difference after his return, [Joseph. lib. 17. cap. 7.]
Antipater heard no news all this while either of the death of Pheroras, or of those things that were brought on foot against him, although there was seven months space between, the wickednesse proved against him, and his return. [Id. lib. 1. bell. cap. 20. & lib. 17. cap. 6. fin.] For in his journey at Tarentum, he received a letter of Pharoras death, and in Cilicia those letters of his father, that recalled him back so hastily: and coming to Celenderis, a Town of Cilicia, he began to doubt of his returne, being extream sorrowful, for the disgrace of his mother; but sailing forwards, he came to Sebaste, a Port of Cesarea; where being saluted by none, from thence he came to Jerusalem. [Id. lib. 17. cap. 7.]
It happened that Quintilius Varus, was the same time at Jerusalem, being sent successour to Satur…inus into Syria, and then called thither by Herod, to assist him with his councel in his weighty affairs. As they were sitting both together, Antipater comes in, not knowing any thing, and in his purple garment that he was wont to wear, entred the Pallace: he being entred in, the guards at the gates suffered none of his followers to come in with him: as he was coming neer, his father thrust him from him, reproaching him with the murder of his brethren, and intended poisoning of his father, telling him that the next day Va…us should both hear and determine all things between them. [Id. ib.]
The next day Varus and the King sitting in judgement, his father himself first began the accusation, and left the prosecution and confirmation thereof to Nicholas Damascene his dear and familiar friend, and one that knew all the businesse, where when Antipater could not clear himself from the crimes objected against him. Varus commanded the po…son that he had prepared for his father to be brought forth, which being given to a condemned man, killed him immediatly. Which being done, Varus rose from the Council, and the next day went to Antiochia, because there was the chief Palace of the Syrians: but Herod presently cast his son into prison, and signified so much by letters to Caesar; sending also messengers, which by word of mouth, might certifie him of the cursed treason of Antipater. [Ibid.]
At the same time there were letters intercepted from Antiphilus to Antipater out of Egypt, together also with others from Rome to Antipater and Herod the King, written from Acme, she was a Jew born, and Chamber-maid to Livia, Caesars wife; who being corrupted with good store of mony by Antipater, sent a feigned letter to Herod, as if it had been written from Salome to her Lady against him; in which she desired that she might have licence to marry with Syllaeus, (to wit, that Nabathaean, Herods sworn enemy) who a little after, for betraying of Aelius Gallus, in the Arabian Expedition, and other crimes, had his head cut off at Rome, as Strabo writes in lib. 16. p. 782. Herod sent by his Embassadors to Caesar, a copy of these letters, together with those of his own, against his son. [Ibid.]
As the Embassadours hasten to Rome, Herod being taken with sicknesse, made his Will, leaving the succession of his Kingdom to his youngest son, Herod Antipas being exasperated against Archelaus and Philip, by false accusations of Antipater. [Id. ib. lib. 17. cap. 8.]
Judas, the son of Sariphaeus, and Matthias, the son of Margalothus, two of the most learned of the Jews, and best Interpreters of the Law, after they knew that the Kings sicknesse was incurable, perswaded some young men that were their Scholers, that they should throw down the golden Eagle, that was set up by Herod, over the great gate of the Temple: for going up at noon day, they pulled and hewed down with their axes the Eagle, a great multitude being in the Temple and beholding it: which as soon as it was told the Captain, he comes with a strong band of Souldiers, and layes hold upon some fourty of the young men together with their masters and brings them to Herod, these constantly defending what they had done, Herod commands them to be bound, and sent them to Jericho: then calling for the rulers of the Jews, he being brought into the assembly in a litter by reason of his weaknesse, he complaines not so much of the injury done to himself as to God (as he said) who denying that it was done according to their order, he being something more mild to the rest, takes away the High-Priesthood from Matthias the High-Priest, as not altogether a stranger from this businesse, and made successour to him Jazar the brother of his wife, (Mariamme the daughter of Simon the High-Priest) but he burned alive the other Matthias that was partner of this sedition, and his companions, and that night the moon was eclipsed; [id. ibid.] which eclipse to have been on the 3 day of March three houres after midnight, the Astronomicall table doth shew.
Then Herods disease began to grow worse, for he was inflamed with a slow fire, which was not perceived so much by the outward touch, as that it burnt up his very bowells, he had also the disease called the Bulimia, with a continuall desire of eating, for the satisfying of which he was alwaies eating. He was also continually tortured with ulcers in his bowells, and paines of the collick, his feet swelled with a moist phlegm, and also his thighes, his members rotted and were full of worms, and also a filthy and no lesse troublesome Priapisme, and also a most greivous stinke, and over and above he was troubled with convulsions, and difficulty of breathing. [ibid.]
And although he was so grievously tormented, that he seemed to every one that he could not be able to endure it, yet he hoped he should escape, being very carefull to send for Phisicians, and seeking …edecines from every place he went also beyond Jordan, and went into the hot baths at Callirrhoe, which running into the Asphaltite lake, and besides the medicinall vertue are pleasant to drinke, then by the advice of his Phisicians being set in a bathing tub filled with oyl, he seemed to them to give up the Ghost, whereupon at the sudden crying out and bewailing him of his friends, he came to himself, and now seeing no more hope of recovery, he commanded 50 drachmes to be given to every souldier, and having used much liberality to his Captains and friends he returned again to Jericho. [ibid.]
When Augustus had heard that among the children that Herod the King of the Jews had commanded to be killed within two years old, that there was a son also of his own killed also Said. It was better to be Herods hog than his son. thus Macrobius relates. [lib. 2. Saturnal. cap. 4.]
Herod by an edict calls together from every place to Jericho, Year of the World 4001 the most noble of the Jews, and shuts them up in a place called the Hippodram, giving command to his sister Salome, and her husband Alexas, that as soon as he was dead they should cause the souldiers to kill all those that were shut up, seeking only this, that the people should have cause of sorrow, otherwise they would rejoyce at the death of their King they hated so much. [Joseph. lib. 17. cap. 8.]
Letters came from Rome, from the Embassadours that were sent to Caesar, in which was signified, that Acme was put to death by Caesar in a displeasure, because she had been of Antipaters conspiracy, and that Antipater himself was left to his fathers pleasure, either to banish him or to put him to death. Herod having heard these things is a little cheered, but presently being afresh tormented, and greedy of meat, he called for an apple and a knife to pare it, and when he thought to have stabbed himself, Achialus his nephew prevented him, and calling for help, held his right; hand and a great sorrow with fear and tumult struck the whole pallace, as if Herod had been dead. [Id. lib. 17. cap. 9.]
When Antipater perceived that noise, thinking certainly that his father had been dead, he began to temper with his keeper about letting of him out, promising him many things both in present and for the future when it lay in his power: which practise the Keeper told the King, who for very anger cryed out, and although he was so neer death yet ra…ised himself up in his bed, and commanded one of his guard, to go presently and to put Antipater to death, and that he should be buried in the Castle of Hyrcanion without any honour. [id. ibid.]
Then changing his mind he made a new testament, for Antipas who before he had made his successour of the Kingdome, he made him Tetrarch of Galilee and Petrea, but gave the Kingdome to Archelaus, and assigned to his son Philip the regions of Gaulanitis, Trachonitis, Batanaea and Pancada in the name of a Tetrarchy, to Salome his sister he gave Jamnia, Azotus and Phasaelis with 500000 drachmes to the rest of his kindred he gave money and yearly pensions. To Caesar he gave 10000000 of drachmes of silver, and all his plate aswell gold as silver, and a great quantity of precious moveables. To Liria Caesars wife and to some certain friends 5000000 of drachmes. [id. ib. cap. 10.]
Herod having ordered these things five daies after he had put to death Antipater, he died himself, having enjoyed the kingdom 34 years after he had killed Antigonus▪ but from the time that he was declared King by the Romans 37 years, [Id. ibid. & belli. 1. cap. ult.] about the 25 of our November: viz. the 7 of the monethmonth Cis…e…; which is therefore accounted a Joyful and Festival… day, because in that day Herod died who hated all wise men: as Edward Liveley a most learned man, noted in his Chronology, in foreign or the Volume of the Fast.
Salome and Alexas, before the Kings death was known, sent all those home that were shut up in the Hypodrome, saying That he had so commanded, that they should go into the Country and follow their businesses. [Joseph. l…b. 17. cap. 10.]
Then was the Kings death declared, and all the souldiery called into the Theater of Jericho, and there they first read the Kings letters to the souldiers, in which giving them thanks for their fidelity and love to him, he desires them that they would do the like for his son Archelaus, whom he had appointed to be his Successour in the kingdom. Then Ptolemy the keeper of the Kings Seale, read his Testament, which he would not have to be ratified without Caesars consent. Then was there a shout for joy that Archelaus was King, and the souldiers came flocking in with their Captains about him, and promised that they would keep the same faith and affection to him as they had done to his father, praying God to prosper him in his Raign. Then was the Kings Funerals most royally prepared by Archelaus, [Ibid.]
Herod being dead who sought the life of the young Child Jesus, The Julian Period. 4711 the Angel of the Lord appearing to Joseph in a dream in Egypt, Year before Christ 3 commanded that he should return with the young Child and his Mother into the land of Israel: who being awakened performs what was injoyned him, [Matt. II. 19, 20, 21.]
Joseph coming into the land of Israel, when he heard that Archelaus raigned in Judea in the roome of his father Herod, he feared to go thither, and being warned of God in a dream, he departed into the parts of Galilee (the Tetrarchy of which his father Herod had given to Antipas by his will) and there dwelt in the City Nazareth: from whence Jesus took the name of Nazarene, [Mat. II. 22, 23.] and the Christians of Nazarenes, [Acts, XXIV. 5.]
Herods body is carried in a Funeral pompe 200 furlongs from Jericho, to the Castle Herodion, where he himself had appointed to be buried, [Joseph. lib. 1. bell. cap. ult. fin.] they going each day but eight fu…longs (or an Italian mile) as may be gathered out of the 17 book of Antiquit. cap. 10.) He was carried in a golden Licter, set with precious Stones, bearing cloth of Purple: his body also was cloathed with Purple; then was a Diadem put on his head, and also over him a Crown of Gold, and a Scepter in his right hand: his son, and kinsfolke marched about the Licter: then followed the souldiers, marshalled according to their Nations, then 500 servants bearing persumes, [Id. lib. 17. Antiquit. cap. 10.]
The ceremony of the Funerals being ended, Archelaus coming to Jeresalem, solemnized the mourning for his father seven dayes, after the custom of the Jews; and at the end of the …ourning, made a Funeral Banq…et to the multitude. Then going up into the Temple, wheresoever he went he was entertained with gratulatory acclamations; then ascending into an higher place, and sitting on a golden Throne, he graciously speakes unto the people, promising them very fairly; but withal said, That he would not take the name of King upon him, until Caesar had confirmed his fathers testament: and after the sacrifices were ended, he banqueted with his friends, [Id. ibid.]
Then there was a sedition raised by their friends, whom Herod had put to death for throwing down the golden Eagle; who then cast reproaches upon the dead King, demanding some of his friends also to be punished; and moreover desired that Joazar the High Priest might be turned out of the Priesthood: whom when Archelaus sought to appease, but in vain, the matter came to that passe, that about the Feast of the Passeover, Archelaus sent the whole army against them, where 3000 men were killed by the Horsemen about the Temple, the rest saving themselves in the adjoyning mountains, [Id. lib. 17. cap. 11.]
Then Archelaus goes down to the Sea with his mother (Malthace a Samaritane) to sail unto Caesar, taking along with him Nicholas Damascene, and Ptolomy (Herods Agent) and many other of his friends: committing his family and kingdom to the trust of his brother Philip. Salome also the sister of Herod went with him, who took with her all her children. Others also of his kindred followed him, as if it were to labour to get the regal dignity for Archelaus, but indeed to withstand him, and to accuse him for that fact that was committed in the Temple [Ibid.]
As Archelaus was going with this company, he was met by Sabinus Caesars Agent in Syria that was posting into Judea to take charge of Herods money, whom Varus the Governour of Syria opportunely meeting him, retained, for Archelaus had sent for him by Ptolemy. So that he in favour of the Governour, neither seized upon the Fortresses Judea, nor sealed up the Kings Treasures, leaving all things in Archelaus his possession, till Caesar should determine something concerning them, and having promised these things, he tarried at Caesarea: but after Archelaus set sail for Rome, and Varus was gone to Antioch, he then went to Jerusalem and seized upon the Palace: and then calling before him the Captains of the Castles, and the Kings Agents, demanded the accounts from them, and that the Castles should be delivered over to him; but the Governours receded not from Archelaus his commands, but kept all things as they were until the Kings return, pretending they kept them for Caesar, [Ibid.]
At the same time Antipas the son of Herod sailed to Rome, with a hope to get the kingdom for himself, to which he was excited by Salome, as if he were to be preferred before Archelaus, because he was appointed the Successour of the kingdom, by Herods first testament, which ought to be of more validity than the second. He carried with him also his mother (Cleopatra that was borne at Jerusalem) and Ptolemy the brother of Nicholas Damascene one of Herods chief friends, and one that favoured his title: but especially Irenaeus an Orator, and eloquent man, and one that was conversant in the Kings businesses, put him most forward to affect the kingdom. After Antipas was come to Rome, all the kinsmen fell to him, for the hatred they bore to Archelaus; Sabinus also in the letters he wrote to Caesar, accused Archelaus, [Ibid.]
Archelaus by Ptolemy exhibited a petition to Caesar containing his own right, and the accounts of Herods money that was sealed up. Caesar when he had read the petition, and also Varus and Sabinus his letters, called his friends to council, giving the first place in the Council, to Caius the son of Agrippa, and his daughter Julia, whom he had now adopted; there then Antipater the son of Salome, a very eloquent man speakes against Archelaus, to whom Nicholas Damascene answered in his defence, who having finished his discourse, Archelaus fell down at Caesars feet, whom he curteously raised up, and pronounced that he was worthy of the kingdom, pretending that he would do nothing unlesse it were prescribed in his fathers testament, or that should be profitable for Archelaus; and seeing the young man confirmed in some hope by his promise, he determined nothing more at that time, [Ibid.]
Varus coming from Antioch to represse the tumults that were raised in Judea after Archelaus his departure, punished the authours of the sedition; and the sedition being for the most part appeased, he returning le…t one Legion in Jerusalem, that he might take away all occasion of innovation from the Jews: but as soon as ever he was gone, Sabinus Caesars Agent there, having the command of those Forces that were left there, and now thinking himself equal to the people, he endeavoureth to seize upon the Castles, and forceably to make search after the Kings coine, for his private lucre and covetousnesse sake. [Ibid.]
To the Feast of Pentecost came many thousands, not so much for Religion sake, as to be revenged of Sabinu…, not onelyonly from Judea which was more greviously offended, but from Galilee, and also from Idumaea; and from Jericho, and from Towns that were beyond Jordan: and fiercely assaulted Sabinus, dividing their Camp into three Brigades. Against whom the Roman souldiers valiantly opposing themselves, and killing many of them, entred the Treasure-house of the holy Treasure, a good part of which the souldiers stole, but there was openly brought 400 talents of that prey to Sabinus: him a company of the most warlike Jews besiged in the Palace; but Rufus and Gratus who had under their command 3000 men of the most warlike and stout of Herods souldiers joyn themselves with the Romans. For all this the Jews never the more slowly followed the assault, and undermining the walls, and exhorting their adversaries to depart, promising them quarter; whose liberal offer Sabinus suspecting, would not withdraw his souldiers, still expecting succour from Varus, [Ibid.]
In this state of things, there were divers other tumults raised in Judea in divers other places; because the Nation had not a King of their own that might continue the multitude in their duty by wholesome laws. For 2000 men, who had served under Herod, but then dismissed to live at home, assembled themselves together, set upon those of the Kings faction, against whom Archiabus Herods Nephew, and General for the King, made head; and not daring to meet them in a place of equal advantage, as being old and expert souldiers, he defended himself and his party (as well as he could) in fastnesse and places of difficult accesse. [Ibid.]
Judas (the son of Ezechias that arch-thief, who in former time was with so much labour overthrown by Herod) having gathered a Band of desperate fellows at Sephoris, a City of Galilee, made incursions into the Kings Dominion; and having taken the Kings Armory, he armed all his souldiers, and seized also upon the Kings Treasure in those places: whereupon he began to be a terrour to the Inhabitants: he spoiled all that fell into his clutches. He aspired also to the kingdom, not by lawful means, of which he was wholly ignorant, but by a liberty to do injury. [Ibid.] For whereas foreign of the Hebrews, is the same with foreign of the Syrians, from whence comes Judas and Thaddeus. [Luke. VI. 16. with Mark III. 18.] And much rather Theudas, the same name plainly comes: This Judas seems to be no other than Theudas, of whom [Acts V. 36.] Gamaliel speaks: Before these times rose up Theudas, boasting himself to be some body, to whom a number of men, about 400, joyned themselves, who were slain, and all as many as obeyed him, were scattered and brought to nought.
Simon also, a Servant of King Herods, a man otherwise esteemed among all men, for his comlinesse, stature, and strength, durst venture upon the Crown; and being attended by a mighty company, and proclamed King by them, who were an unbridled multitude, perswaded himself that he was fit to be a King, rather than any other. He began his Kingdom by plundering and burning the Kings Palace at Jericho; and then burning other Palaces, and giving the plunder to them of his own …action: he had also done more licentious prancks, if he had not been spedily prevented: for Gratus, the Captain of the Kings Souldiers, who then followed the Roman party, ma…ched with his forces against Simon, where, after a fierce conflict, they on the other side of Jordan fighting in disorder, and rather with courage than skill, were overcome. Gratus also took Simon, as he was flying through a narrow passage, and cuts off his head. So Josephus, [ut supra.] For Tacitus refers this rather to Varus, in the 5 lib. of his History, [cap. 5.] writing thus of this Simon. After the death of Herod, one Simon makes himself King, without so much as looking for Caesars consent, but he is punished by Varus, the Govnrnour of Syria.
At Amatha, also by Jordan, a royal Palace of the Kings, was burnt by such a rabble of men as Simon had. Athronges also, an obscure Shepherd formerly, and onelyonly famous for his huge stature and strength; he also took upon him the regal dignity. He had four brothers that were of of like stature and strength, upon whom, as his Lieutenants, he gave charge of the multitude that came flocking to him, when there was any wars. He himself wearing a Crown, did consult what was to be done, but he kept the sole command in his own hands. The power of this man endured long, (for he was not a King for nought) until he was brought under the power of Archelaus, being returned from Rome. Joseph. lib. 1. 7. cap. 12.]
Athronges his cruelty reached most especially against the Romans, and the kings party, for he hated them alike. His forces surprised a Cohort about Emmaus, as it was carrying Victual and Ammunition to the army, and killed with their Darts Arius, a a Centurio…, with 40 of his stoutest Foot; the rest looking to be served no better, Gratus coming with the kings souldiers, rescued, but there left the dead bodies. [Ibid.]
Quintilius Varus knowing the danger that Sabinus was in by his letters, fearing the utter overthrow of the third Legion, he takes with him the two others, (for at the uttermost there were but three in all Syria) and four Troups of Horse, and the aides of the Kings and Tetrarchs, and hasteth into Judea, to succour the besieged, having commanded those that were sent before, to meet him at P…olemais, and passing by the City of the Berythians, he receiveth 1500 Auxiliaries from them. Antu… also the Petrean, being a friend to the Romans, even for the hatred he bare to Herod, sent him good store both of Horse and Foot. [Ibid.]
After all the army was come together to Ptolomais, Varus delivered part of it to his son, and to one of his friends, to march against the Galileans, that bordered upon Ptolemais; who entring the Country, put all to flight that durst make head against him, and took the City Sephoris; and having sold all the inhabitants at an outcry, he set the City on fire. [Ibid.]
Varus himself went towards Samaria with the army, but did no harm to the City, because he knew it had not been wrapt in the sedition: but he pitched his Camp in a certain Village, that was called Aras, which was the possession of Ptolemy: this the Arabians burnt, hating his friends, for the hatred they bare to Herod. Then marching on, they came to Sampho, which the Arabians first spoiled, and then burnt, although it was wel fortified: in all that march they put all to fire and sword, but Emmaus was burnt by the command of Varus, in revenge of his Souldiers that were there slain, but the inhabitants had first forsaken it. [Ibid.]
Then when they came nigh to Jerus…lem, the Jews which besieged the Romans on that side, as soon as ever they saw the army approaching, being affrighted, fled, and gave over the assault they had begun: but those of Jerusalem being grievously reproved by Varus, excused themselves, that the people indeed were gathered together in regard of the feast, but that the war arose not with their consent, but by the boldnesse of the strangers that came thither; and already there had gone out to meet Varus, Josephus, a Nephew of King Herods, Gratus and R…s with their Souldiers, and the Romans that had susteined the siege: but Sabinus would not come in sight, but stealing privately out of the City, hasted unto the seaward. [Ibid.]
Then Varus sending part of his army throughout all the Country, sought out the authours of this sedition, whom having found he punisheth, some as guilty, and some were let go free: but there were about 2000 crucified for this cause. After this he dismissed his army, of which he had no more use; and those also, who contrary to his m…nd, had committed many outrages for meer lucres sake. And hearing that there were 1000 Jews gathered together, he hastens to apprehend them: but they not daring to stand the brunt, yielded themselves by Achiabus his advice. Varus then pardoned the common people for their sedition, but sent the ring-leaders to Caesar, and so all things being reduced to peaee, he left the same Legion in Jerusalem in Garison, and so returned to Antioch. [Ibid.]
Malthace, the mother of Archelaus, dyed of a sicknesse at Rome. [Ibid.]
Caesar having received Varus his letter, concerning the revolt of the Jews, he pardoned the rest of the Captains of the seditions, and onelyonly punished some of King Herods kinsmen, because that neither for kind…ed sake, nor yet for justice sake they had abstained from rebellion. [Ibid.]
There came at the same time, by Varus his permission, an Embassie of the Jews, desiring that they might live after their own laws: the Embassadours were about 50, to whom there joyned themselves about 8000 Jews that dwelt at Rome. When therefore Caesar had called a Council of his friends and chief Citizens into the Temple of Apollo, which he had built to his mighty charge: thither came the Embassadours, a multitude of the Jews following them, and Archelaus came also with his comp…ny. Philip also was there, who came by Varus his advice out of Syria, both that he might be an advocate for his brother, to whom Varus wished well, and also that in the division of Herods Kingdom, he might get some share. The Embassadours therefore having leave so speak, they began their discourse from the accusation of Herod and Archelaus, and then desired that they might have no more Kings, but that the form of the Common-wealth might be changed, and be annexed to Syria, and that they might obey the Governours sent them from Rome: to which objections, when Nicholas Damascen had answered both for Herod that was dead, and for Archelaus that was present, Caesar brake up the councel. [Ibid.]
A few daies after, Caesar declared Archelaus not King indeed, but made him Lord of half part of that dominion that was left him by his father Herod, but promised him a Kingdom, if he behaved himself as might deserve a Kingdom: to him belonged Judea and Idumea, and besides these Samaria, to which, by the command of Caesar, a fourth part of their tribute was remitted, because that they kept themselves in peace, when the rest were in sedition, in his government these Cities were comprehended, the Tower of Straton, Sebaste, Joppe, Jerusalem; for Gaza, Gadara, and Hippon were Cities which followed the lawes of Greece, for which cause Caesar had dismembred them and annexed them to Syria. Yet there accrewed to Archelaus 600 talents out of his own dominion. [id. ibid. cap. 13.]
Caesar divided the other half of Herods dominion to two other, two of Herods sons, to Herod Antipas befell Gal…lee, with the little Country of Petraea, (but a most fertile one and lieth beyond Jordan, between the two lakes of Tiberias and Asphaltites,) the yearly revenue of which were 200 talents, to Philips lot befell Ba…anaea, Trachonitis and Auranitis, with a certain part of the palace of Zenodorus, (as they call it) which paid yearly a 100 talents, to Salome also beside the Cities that were left her by her brother Jamnia Azotus and Phasaelis, and half a million of silver; Caesar gave her a palace in Ascalon, she also received from the places that were subject to her sixty talents, and dwelt in the dominion of Archelaus: the rest of Herods kindred received what was bequeathed by his testament; also two of Herods daughters that were virgins besides what their father left them, received from the bounty of Caesar a quarter of a million of silver, and were married to the sons of Pheroras, yea and all the Kings legacy amounting to the sum of 1500 talents he gave to his sons, keeping for himself but a few moveables, not so much for the value, as for the memory of his friend. [id. ibid.]
Thus the children of Herod governed the Nation being thus restrained in a threefold division, saith Tacitus [lib. 5. cap. 9.] to whom Strabo is to be added, wriing thus of his children, Some of them he put to death himself, as being assailed by their treachery, others at his death he left his successours, assigning to every one his portion. Caesar also highly honoured Herods children, and his Sister Salome, and Berenice the daughter of Salome.
A certain young man, a Jew of mean parentage, brought up in Sidon, with a Roman libertiae, that resembled Alexander the son of Herod in the face, feignes himself to be he, who was delivered from death with his brother Aristobulus by the means of a certain friend of his keeper, being induced to feign this by a certain cunning impostour, that was very well acquainted in Herods palace, being instructed by this fellows cunning and deceits, when he had sailed into Crete, he perswaded all the Jews that came in conference with him this thing was so, and having got store of money from them, he sailed into the Island Melus, where he got huge store of money under pretext that he was of the Kings stock, and now hoping that he should recover his fathers Kingdome, he hasted to Rome, his friends accompanying him, and when he had sailed to Puteoli, he was there likewise received with he same favour by the deceived Jews, and as he was coming to Rome, all the multitude of the Jews that lived there came out to meet him, when this news was brought to Caesar, he sent thither Celadus one of his freemen that was very well in former time acquainted with the young men, commanding him that he should bring Alexander into his presence, which thing he did, but was no wiser than the rest in knowing him, but, yet he did not deceive Caesar, who sent this false Alexander when he had confessed his imposture to the gal…ies because he was of a strong body, and caused the other that induced him to this fraud to be put to death. [Joseph. lib. 17. cap. 19.]
Archelaus being returned into his government in Judea, Year of the World 4002 takes away the Priesthood from Ioazar, the son of Boethus (or his grandchild by his son Simon) accusing him that he had favoured the seditions, and placed that dignity upon his brother Elcazar. [Id. ib. cap. 15.]
Augustus brought his son Lucius (in his 13. Consulship) into the Court. The Julian Period. 4712 [Sueton. in cap. 26.] Year before Christ 2 conferring the same honours upon him that he had conferred three years before upon his brother Caius, which the coines do testifie, in which were the Effigies of Caius and Lucius, with Bucklers and Spears, with this inscription. C. L. CAESARES. AUGUSTI. F. COS. DES. PRINCIPES. JUVENT. (i.e.) Caius and Lucius Caesars, the Sons of Augustus, designed Consuls, Princes of youth.
In the same XIII Consulship, he shews in a Monument of Ancyra, that he gave 60 pence to the common people that received corn of the publick, adding withall, that they were not little above 200000, which very thing is also found in Xyphiline, in his collections out of Dio, unlesse that for 60 pence, which the Greeks call drachmes, the Latine interpreter put 240 pence, I know not by what incogitancy.
Augustus himself and Gallus Caninius being Consuls, satisfied the minds and eies of the people of Rome, with shews of combatants with their swords and seafights, [Vellei▪ Patercul. lib. 2. cap. 100.] with Hyeronym. in Chronico. these shews being exhibited he brought water into the Cirque, in which there were thirty crocodiles killed. [Xiph. ex Dione.]
He exhibited also a naval fight, hollowing the ground about Tiber, in that place where afterward was Caesars Grove. [Sueton. in Octavio. cap, 43.] The length of which place so hollowed, was 1800 foot, and the breadth 200, in which 30 beaked ships, and many Gallies, and lesser hoyes combated, as in the Breviary of his doings, graven in the Marble of Anoyra, Augustus himself shews of this sea fight, as but newly set forth, Ovid makes mention of this in the first book of his Art.
Quid modo, cum belli navalis imagine Caesar
Persidas induxit Cecropidasque rates? The Julian Period. 4706
Nempe ab utroque mari juvenes, Year before Christ 8 ab utroque puellae
Venere; atque ingens orbis in urbe fuit.
What, Caesar when, like a sea-fight by land,
Made th'Persian and Cecropian beaks the sand
To ride? He brought both men and maids from th'main,
And made the City all the World retain.
There was occasion of businesse to Augustus in the East from the Armenians, he intending his plaies at Rome, Pompeius had only accustomed them to this only kind of servitude, that they should receive their Governours from Rome, but now they had expulsed Artarasdes (or Artabazes) whom Augustus had set over them upon this title, and had substituted Tigranes in his place, and for the defending of this revolt, they called the Parthians to their aid, and so Armenia withdrawing it self to them, and the Parthians leaving the alliance of the Romans, laies hold on Armenia. [Florus lib. 4. cap. 12. Velleius. Paterculus. lib. 2. cap. 100. Tacitus. Annal. lib. 2. cap. 3. Dio. in Zonara, & excerptis a Fulv. Vrsino Edit. legat. 39. Sextus. Rufus in. breviario.]
Augustus brings Caius and Lucius as yet very young into some charge in the commonwealth, and sent them about the provinces and armies, they being designed Consuls, [Sueton, in Octavio, cap. 64.] Whence we read in Velleius Paterculus, [lib. 2. cap, 101.] That Caius went about the Provinces (ad sidendum) to settle them, where Beatus Rhenanus thinks it should be read (ad sedandum) to quiet them; and Justus Lipsius thinks (ad visendum) to visit them. And that this is the best reading, that place of Dion shews, in the collections set forth by Henricus Valesius, [pag. 665.] Caius Caesar going about as they were wont to do in peace, viewed the Legions that were incamped by the River Ister; for he had never any command in the wars: not that there was not any war at that time, but because he had learned the arts in peace and security, while the dangers of the war were committed to others managment.
At Rome in the very year that Augustus set forth the Shews of the Combatants both at land and sea, there brake out a filthy and horrible disaster in his own house; for his daughter Julia altogether unmindful either of the greatness of her father or husband, left nothing undone in luxury and lust that it was possible for a woman to do or suffer; for she measured the greatness of her fortune by her liberty in sinning, accounting every thing lawful that pleased her, [Velle…. Patercul. lib. 2. cap. 100.] Yea she came to that height of laciviousnesse, that she kept her mighty feastings in the very Courts of Justice, abusing those Courts with lascivious acts in which her father had made the law against adulteries. Whereupon her father was so inraged that he could not contain his anger within his own house, but published these things, yea, and communicated them with the Lords of the Senate, [Seneca, de Beneficiis, lib. 6. cap. 32. Dio. in Xiphil. epitome, & Excerptis, Valesi…, pag. 665.] onelyonly he was not present, but in a note that was read by the Questour, made the thing known to the Senate. He kept himself also from any company a long time for very shame; he was thinking also of putting his daughter to death. [Sueton, in Octavio.] At last she was banished into Pandataria an Island of Campania: her mother Scribonia of her own accord accompanying her in her banishment, [Vellei. Patercul. & Dio. ut supra.] who being divorced from Caesar that very day in which she was delivered of her, L. Martius, and C. Sabinus, being Consuls, [Dio. lib. 48. pag. 377.] to wit, the year of the Julian account, 4675. So that Julia was 38 years old at that time, and that she was not yonnger than that age, we understand out of Macrobius, [lib. 2. Saturnal. cap. 5.]
Tiberius being in Rhodes, and hearing that his wife Julia was condemned for her lusts and adulteries, and that a divorce was sent her in his name by the command of Augustus, although he was glad at heart, yet he thought it his duty, as much as in him lay, by frequent letters to beg him that he would forgive his daughter, and that he would grant her, although she had deserved very ill, yet whatsoever he had given her. [Sueton. in Tiber. cap. 11.]
When Augustus heard that the Armenians were revolted, and that they were aided by the Parthians, he was grieved at it, and doubted what to do; for he could not manage the war himself because of his old age; and Tiberius had withdrawn himself, neither durst he trust any of the more powerful Citizens: Caius and Lucins were young and unfit for such matters; but yet necessity compelling him, he chose Caius, making him Proconsul, and marrying him, that by this means he might seem to have more honour, and more friends to give him counsel, [Zonarus, ex Dione.] His wives name was Lollia Paulina, [Sueton, in Claudio, cap. 26.] either the daughter or neice of Marcus Lollius, [Plin. lib. 9. cap. 35. Solin. cap. 53.] Whom he would have to be either Governour or Moderatour of Caius his youth, [Vellei. Patercul. lib. 2. cap. 102. Sueton in Tiberio, cap. 12.]
When he was providing for this Expedition, Ovid wrote foreign, in his first book; adding this to the mention of the Sea-fight that was but newly ended.
Ecce parat Caesar domito quod defuit orbi
Addere: nunc Oriens ultime noster eris.
Parthe dabis poenas: Crassi gaudete sepulti,
Signaque barbaricas non bene passa manus.
Ultor adest, primisque ducem profitetur in annit;
Bellaque non puero tractat agenda puer.
Caesar prepares with courage to subdue
Of the whole World th' onelyonly unconquer'd crew;
Now must the Parthian by him overcome,
Receive chastisments, and observe his doom.
Rejoyce you buried Crassians, what you lost,
Revengfully is taken to their cost:
By one, though Captain young, yet shews the World,
Such high atcheivements cannot be control'd.
Adding a little after:
Auspiciis annisque patris puer arma movebis;
Et vinces annis auspiciisque patris.
Tale rudimentum tanto sub nomine debes;
Nunc juvenum princeps, deinde future senum.
With fathers fate and gravity renown'd,
Thou fighting shalt with victory be crown'd:
Such expectation doth thy name obtain,
Though now of young, a Prince of old thoul't raign.
He that was so ill a Prophet in conjecturing what should come to passe, was not much out of the way in setting down the just year of Caius his age. For his father Augustus was nineteen years old when he gathered his army: as it hath been shewed before out of the Ancyran Marble: and Caius was now entered into the nineteenth year of his age, when he provides for the Armenian and Parthian war, so that he was Commander to war just at the same age that his father had been.
The Emperour Augustus sent before Dionysius a most excellent Geoprapher into the East, to make a Commentary of all things, for his elder son that was to go into Armenia, about the affairs of Parthia and Arabia: as we read in Pliny, [lib. 6. cap. 27.] Whether it was that famous Dionysius whose Periegesis is extant in Greek Verse, or Dionysius the son of Diogenes of whom Marcianus Heracleota in his first book of Periplus, saith, that he set forth the dimension of the Earth.
That Caius Caesar had Armenia for his Province, saith Tacitus, [lib. 2. Annal. cap. 3. lib. 3. cap. 48.] That he was sent into Syria, saith Velleius Paterculus, [lib. 2. cap. 101.] That he was made Governour of the East, saith Suetonius, [in Tiberio, cap. 12.] That he was sent by Augustus to order the Provinces of Egypt and Syria O…osius, [lib. 7. cap. 3.] Pliny in the end of the 27 chapter of the sixth book, citeth Volumes of King Juba written to the same Caius concerning the Expedition into Arabia, and in the following chapter adding, that Caius had onelyonly an eye upon Arabia, but never made any Expedition thither.
As soon as Phraates the King of the Parthians heard of the warlike provision that Caius made against the Barbarians, with an Apology for those things that were done and desiring peace: to whom Caesar answering by letters, commanded him to leave Armenia; but Tigranes at that time sent no Embassie to him. [Dio. legat. 39. in Excerptis, ab Vrsin. edit.]
Tiberius, The Julian Period. 4713 the time of his Tribuneship being over, Year before Christ 1 at length confessed that he by his retirement went onelyonly to shun all suspicion of envy between himself and Caius an… Lucius. He requested, that seeing there was no danger concerning that businesse, they being grown men, and next in authority to the Emperour, that he would give him leave to see again his alliances, whom he had a great desire to see: but this would no be granted, and he was moreover warned, that he should lay aside all care of them, woom he had left so desireously, [Sueton, in Tiberio, cap. 11.]
He tarried therefore at Rhodes against his will, scarce obtaining so much at hi… mothers intreaties, that to cover the ignominy he might be there as a Li…utenant to Augustus. Neither lived he onelyonly a private life, but in danger and fear, lying hid … the middest of the Island, to shun the services of them that sailed by, [Id. ibid. 12.]
Caius going to the Armenian war, Tiberius crossed over to Chius to present his service to him, purging himself of all suspitions, and was very humble not onelyonly to Caius, but also to his followers, [Xiphil. & Zonar. ex Dion.] although Velleius flattering Tiberius as he doth alwayes, writes that Caius gave all honour to Tiberius as his superiour, [lib. 2. cap. 101.] Suetonius writes that Tiberius went not to …, but Samos, for to see his son in law Caius, and that he found him much alienated from him thorough the false accusations of Marcus Lollius, [ut supra. cap. 12.]
He came also into suspition thorough some Centurions of his allowance, who going from the meeting to the Camp again, seemed to have given doubtful commands to many, and which might tempt the minds of many to innovations; of which suspition being certified by Augustus, he continually desired of him that he would send one to him, of what rank soever to be an Overseer of his words and deeds. He left off also his usual riding, and his other martial excercises, and went in his coat, and shooes, laying aside his Country habit: and in that fashion lived he at Rhodes two years, every day more contemned and more hated, [Sueton in Tiberio, cap. 12.]
Caius passing by Judea, scorned to worship at Jerusalem, which Augustus, as soon as he knew of from himself much commended. Suetonius relates this, [in Octa. cap. 93.] and out of him Orosius, [lib. 7. cap. 3.] adding that Caius coming out of Egypt, passed by the borders of Palestine.
Zonaras relates out of Dion. That Caius coming from thence into Syria, did nothing worthy fame. Velleius Paterculus saith, That he behaved himself so variously, that there wanted not matter for any that would either praise him or dispraise him. [lib. 2. cap. 110.] But that through the greatness and majesty of the Roman name, he quieted all things, saith Sextus Rusus in his Breviary.
Quirinus being returned to Rome, married that generous woman Lepida, intended sometime for wife for Lucius, and to be daughter in law to Augustus, whom yet after twenty years (C. Marcus Valerius Messala, and Marcus Aurelius Cotta being Consuls) in the year of the Per. Julian. 4733. he divorced, accusing her that she had prepared poison for him. [Sueton. in Tiberio. cap. 49. with Tacit. lib. 3. Annal. cap. 22, 23.]
When Augustus in those forementioned letters had plainly called him Phraates, not calling him King, he was not a whit terrified, but prou…ly wr…ing back again, and calling himself King, called Augustus nothing but Caesar. [Dio. in Xephilin. & Legat. …9. Vrsin. edit.] But when he knew that Caius was come into Syria, and suspected that for the hatred his subjects bare him, things would not be quiet at home, he made a peace with Caius, upon this condition, That he should leave off prete…sions to Armenia. [X…philin. ex Dion.] From whence it is read in the seventh book of Eutropius, That Augustus received Armenia from the Parthians. And in the Chronicle of Eusebius, it is said that Caius Caesar made peace with the Parthians.
When Artabazes, or Artavasdes, was dead of a disease, Tigranes sent presents to Augustus, for joy that his enemy was taken away, and not writing himself King, begged the Kingdom of him. Augustus moved with these things, and fearing the Parthian war, both accepts of his presents, and commands him with some hope to go into Syria to C…us. So Dion in Excerptis legat. a Fulvio. Ursin. Edit. Sextus Rusus in Breviar. saith. That the Armenians that were then stronger than the Parthians, yielded themselves to Caius: and if you will hear forwards. The Armen…ans being joyned with the Parthians, are easily overcome by Caius Augustus his help. The Armenians thinking it more profitable to be reconciled to the friendship of the Romans, and to live in their own Country, than to joyn with the Parthians, loose their Country, and have the enmity of the Romans.
THe first year of the Vulgar Christian account, Year of the World 4004 of which we now reckon this 1653. The Julian Period. 4714 begins here, Year after Christ 1 in which Caius Caesar being twenty years old, five years after he was brought into the market-place, was Consul in the East, as Pighius in his Annals shews, out of a Marble Table of Naples and Anagna.
This year also Tiberius lived at Rhodes a banished man, under coulour of leading a solitous life, for thus Tacitus rightly censures of it. [Annal. lib. 1. cap. 4.] Whereupon one in a familiar banquet, mention being made of him, promised Caius, that if he would b…d him, he would saile presently to Rhodes, and bring him the head of that banished man, through which, not so much fear, as danger, he was compelled to desire his returne by his own and his mothers (of Livia) most earnest prayers. But Augustus was determined to do nothing concerning this businesse, but according to the pleasure of Caius. [Sueton in Tiberio. cap. 13.]
When Augustus, his Climacterical year being past, solemnised his birth day of 64 years, on the ninth Kalends of October, he wrote this Epistle to Caius. All haile my Caius, my chiefest delight, whom in good faith I alwayes desire, when thou art from me, but especially on such dayes as this is; my eyes alwaies long for Caius, whom wheresoever thou were't, I hope that being merry and in health, thou didst solemnly keep my sixty fourth birthday: for thou seest that we have past the sixty third year, the common Climactery of all old men: and I pray the gods, that for the rest of my life that remaineth, I may lead it in an happy estate, for the Common-wealth, you being in health, and quitting your selves like men, and succeeding my place. Out of a book of the Epistles of Augustus to Caius, Aulius Gellius hath preserved this in Noctibus Atticis, lib. 15. cap. 7.
Caius went to a conference with the King of the Parthians, in an Island that the river Euphrates makes; each having the like number with them, the Roman and the Parthian army standing one on this side the other on that side, first the Parthian was feasted by Caius on the Roman shoar, and then Caius by the Parthian on the Parthian shoar, which sight Velleius Paterculus writes that he happened to see when he first began to pay, being Tribune of the souldiers. [lib. 2. cap. 101.]
At that time the anger of Caius Caesar divulged the perfidious, subtile and cunning councells of Marcus Lollius, which were declared unto him by the Parthian, [id. ibid. cap. 102.] for being defamed for taking bribes of the Kings, and for robbing all the Countries of the East, he forbad him his friendship: although his own wife the daughter or neice of this Lollius is said to have gained a gown beset with pearl, valued at 400 Seste…tium's, [Plin. lib. 9. cap. 35. Solin. cap. 55.] but by how much Caius was the more offended with Lollius, by so much the more he shewed himself gentle and exo…able to his father in law Tiberius. [Sueton. in Tib. cap. 13.]
The death of Lollius which was within few dayes after, Velleius Paterculus, who in those places professeth he knoweth not whether it were bychance, orvoluntary, although Pliny and Solinus affirm that he died by poison taken; Velleius saith that all men did as heartily rejoyce at this mans death, as the City mourned, that Censorinus died a little after in those Provinces, a man born to deserve all mens friendship. [lib. 2. cap. 102.] It seems that C. Martius was this Censorinus, that offered the request of the Jews of Cyrene and of Asia to Augustus, in Josephus. [Antiquit. lib. 16. cap. 10.]
Quirinius is made Governour to Caius Caesar, Year of the World 4005 in the room of Lollius, The Julian Period. 4715 who served Tiberius, Year after Christ 2 living at Rhodes; which Tiberius himself did acknowledge after his death in the Senate, commending the services of Quirinius towards him, and accusing Lollius, as authour of the ill will, and difference between him and Caius Caesar. [Tacit Annal. lib. 3. cap. 48.]
At Caius his permission, Tiberius is recalled, but with condition, that he should bear no office in the Common-wealth. [Sueton in Tiber. cap. 13.]
Tiberius was himself very skillful of that divination that is taken from the stars, he had also Thrasyllus, a Mathematitian in his company, who seeing a ship sailing towards them, a great way off, which brought the news from Livia and Augustus of his return, affirmed that it brought some joy to him, when as truly, because things happened a little hardly to him, and against Thrasillus his predictions, he had intended at that very time as they walked together, to throw him headlong into the sea, as one that was false to him, and knew his secrets. [Id. ibid. cap. 14. X…philin. ex Dione.]
Tiberius therefore having staied seven years at Rhodes, in the eighth year after his departure, returned into his Country, Publius Vineius being Consul, Lucius and Caius being yet alive. [Sueton. ut supra. Velleius Paterculus, lib. 2. cap. 99. & 103.] And being returned to Rome, his son Drusus being brought into the market-place, he presently went from Pompey's house, in the street Carinae, to Mecaenas his gardens in Esquiliae: he wholly gave himself to ease, doing some private courtesies, but not medling with any publick offices. [Sueton. ut supra. cap. 15.]
Then Lucius, as he was about to go to the armies in Spain, died at Marsellis of a sudden death, being a woman of no fame, twenty two moneths before his brother Caius his death. [Florus, lib. 4. cap. ult. Vellei. Patercul. lib. 2. cap. 102. Tacit. Annal. lib. 1. cap: 3. Sueton in Octavio. cap. 65. Zonar. ex Dio.]
After Lucius his death, Augustus would have adopted Tiberius; but he vehemently refused it, fearing the envy of Caius. [Velle. Paterculi, lib. 2. cap. 103.]
Caius entring into Armenia, Year of the World 4006 at his first entry behaved himself prosperously, The Julian Period. 4716 a little after Addo, Year after Christ 3 or Adduus, (he is called also Ador by Strabo) the Governour of Artagera, perswaded that Castle to revolt, who inticing Caius to the wall, as though he would tell him some private businesse, wounded him: but Caesars Captains took it by continual assaulting and dismantled it. [Id. ibid. cap. 102. Strabo. lib. 11. pag. 529. Zonar. ex Dione.]
In Florus [lib. 4. cap. ult.] this story is thus related. Domitius, whom the King had made Governour of Artaxatis feigning a revolt, assailes him as he was perusing a Scrolle, which he had given him as conteining an account of the treasures, he was wounded indeed, but in short time recovered of his wound: but the Barbarians being set upon on every side by the army with sword and fire, into which he threw himself, being wounded, satisfied Caesar that outlived him. Sextus Rufus also followed Florus in his Breviary: but as if the businesse here had been concerning the Parthians, and not concerning the Armenians, he without reason addes, That the Parthians for satisfaction of such a bold attempt, did then first give hostages to Octavianus Caesar, and restored the Ensignes that were taken away under Crassus. Relating all those things to this History of Caius (falsly called Claudius, both here and by Jornandes, and in that writing of the Latines, that Georgius Syncellus transferred into his Greek Chronicle) which Suetonius in Octavia. cap. 21. had written of the Parthians, comprehending both under one, without any account of the times. The Parthians easily yielded up Armenia to (Octavius) claiming it; and restored the military Ensignes to him demanding them, which were taken from M. Crassus and M. Antonius, and moreover offered hostages.
Caius set Ariobarzanes, by birth a Mede, in regard of his rare beauty, both of body and mind, over the Armenians at their desire. [Tacit. Annal. lib. 1.]
Caius by reason of his wound began to be in his body lesse able, and in his mind lesse profitable to the commonwealth, neither wanted he the company of men that by their …atte…y fomented his vices, by which he was brought to that passe, that he had rather spend all his time in any corner of the world, than to return to Rome, [Vellei. P…tercul. lib. cap. 102.] for being become more dull through sicklinesse, and a li…her disposition, …e desired that he might live a private life, at which Augustus being grieved, advised him that he would return into Italy, and he should do as he would [Zonar. ex Dione.] after much reluctancy and much against his will, he was brought by shipping into Lycia, and died by sicknesse in the City Limyra, [id. & Vellei. Paterc. ut supra.] Tacitus notes that he died as he came from Armenia, being sick of his wound. [Annal. lib. 1. cap. 3.] Sextus Rufus affirmes he died of his wound being returned into Syria, but Suetonins confirmes that he died in Lycia, as doth also Dio and Vellei…s (who being a T…ibune of souldiers, served then under Caius. [in Octavio. cap. 65.]
Augustus was much greived at the death of Caius, for in his letters he complained of Asi…iu… Pollio, that being his dear friend he had a great supper, when his grief was so fresh and great, to whom Pollio wrote back; I supped after the same fashion, when I lost my son Aterius, would any exact more greif from a friend, than from a father? Marcus Seneca relates this in the proeme of the 4. book of his controversies.
The bodies of Caius and Lucius were brought to Rome by the Captaines, armies, and commanders of every City, and the golden (or silver rather) tergets and spears, that they received from the Knight, when they came to be men, were hung up in the Senate house, [Xiphilin. ex Dion.] although Bellonius relates in the second book of his observations, that the Epitaph of C. Caesar may be seen at Hama or Emesa in Syria: but that his bones were buried at Rome, this Epitaph shews, which is seen before the temple of the Apostles behind the temple of Minerva. OSSA C. CAESARIS AVGVSTI F. PRINCIPIS JUVENTUTIS. i. e. the bones of C. Caesar the son of Augustus prince of youth, [Inscript. Gruter. pag. CCXXXV. 4.] there was a suspicion that both these brothers were taken out of the way by the deceit of their stepmother Livia, (to make away for her son Tiberius to the Empire. [Tacit. Annal. lib. 1. cap. 3. Zonar. ex Dion.]
Augustu… is called Lord by the people, which name he did not only not approve, but forbad it by an edict. [Xiphilin. & Zonar. ex Dion. cum Suetonio. in Octavio. cap. 53.]
Three ten years of his principality being now ended, Year of the World 4007 he took upon him the Empire for ten years more, as it were upon compulsion, who being now become more mild and loather to exasperate the Senatours, would not offend any, any more. [Xiphilin. ex Dione.]
Augustus made Tiberius Nero his partner in the Tribuneship, which he eagerly refused both at home and in the Senate, [Vellei. Patercul. lib. 2. cap. 103.] Suetonius saith the Tribuneship was given him for five years, [in Tiberio. cap. 16.] for ten yeares saith Dio. [lib. 55. pag. 556. fin.]
The Jul…an Kalender is set right, The Julian Period. 4717 the third intercalary day being superfluous, Year after Christ 4 which had increased by the default of the Roman Priests, was this year in the month of February omitted, but afterwards Augustus being, High-Priest, commanded that one day in the beginning of every fifth year should be intercalated according to the institution of Caesar, and for the perpetuall keeping up this order, he commanded that it should be engraved in a brazen table, [Macrob. lib. 1. Saturnal. cap. 14. fin.] from which institution the accounts of all times hereafter took their rise, [Solin. cap. 3.] and no marvell for it was constantly observed even after, till the change of the Kalender made by Pope Gregory XIII in the year 1579. But yet least the faires that were kept by the Romans at the beginning of every ninth day, should fall upon the Kalends of January, one day was added often in the end of the precedent year, beside the custome and taken away again in the following year, that the time might agree with the institution of Julius Caesar, concerning which businesse Dio is to be consulted. [lib. 48. pag. 377. & lib. 60. pag. 681.]
After five years Augustus brought his daughter Julia from the Island into the continent, giving her some more gentle conditions: but could never be brought to recall her altogether, and when the Roman people intreated him for her, and were very urgent with him, he used this imprecation openly to them, that they might have such daughters and such wives. [Sueton. Octavio. cap. 65.]
Aeliu… Ca…s and Sentius (Sa…urninus) being Consuls on the V. Kalends of July Augustus adopted Tiberi… Nero, [Vellei. Patercul. lib. 2. cap. 102.] swearing before the people that he adopted him for the commonwealths sake, [id. ibid. cap. 104. cum Sueton. in Tiberis. cap. 21.] Marcus Agrippa the brother of Caius and L…cius was adopted the same day; whom Julia bare after the death of Agrippa. [Vellei. Patercul▪ ibid. …. cap. 15.] But Augustus, fea…ing least Tiberius should grow proud, … make some innovation: before he adopted him, he made Tiberius adopt Germanicus, the son of his brother Drusus, although Tiberius had a son of his own. [D…o. lib. 55. pag. 556, 557. cum Sueton. in Tiberio. cap. 15. & Tacit. lib. 1. Annal. cap. 3.]
Immediately after his adoption, Tiberius is sent into Germany, with whom Paterculus went and served as a Colonel of Horse, and was a Spectatour of all that he did for nine years together. [Vellei. Patercul. cap. 104, 105. init.]
Ti…erius being sent into Germany, the Embassadours of the Parthians, after they had delivered their Embassie at Rome, are commanded to go into the Province to him, [Sueton. in Tiberio, cap. 16.] for many contending for the kingdom, there came Embassadours from the Noblemen of Parthia, desiring to have a King of one of the three sons of Phraates, that remained Hostages at Rome: and Vonones is preferred before his other brethren, and being aided by Caesar, is joyfully accepted by the Parthians for some time. [Id. in Octavio, cap. 21. Joseph. lib. 18. cap. 3. Tacit. Annal. lib. 2. cap. 2.]
Augustus that he might raise a tax in Italy, accepts of the Proconsulary power, [Dio. lib. 55. pag. 557.]
The Sun was in part ecclipsed, Year of the World 4008 [Id. ibid. pag. 563.] The Julian Period. 4718 on the 28 day of March about five of the clock after noon, Year after Christ 5 as the Astronomical table shews.
Toga Virilis which was the gown that the Romans ware at 18 years old, was given to Marcus Agrippa (Posthumus) who had never injoyed those honours that his brothers (Caius and Lucius) had, [D…o. ibid.]
The Rulers of the Jews as well as of the Samaritanes, Year of the World 4009 not bro…king the tyranny of Archelaus, The Julian Period. 4719 accused him to Caesar, Year after Christ 6 knowing that he had done contrary to his command, by whom he was commanded to govern his subjects with justice and equ…. Caesar having heard this was moved with anger, and sent for his Agent that was Resident at Rome, and not vouchsafing to write any thing to Archelaus, commanded him to repair into Judea, and immediately to bring his Master to him, [Joseph. lib. 2. belli. cap. 6. & lib. 17. Antiquit. cap. ult.]
Archelaus is reported to have had a dream foretelling this misfortune, of nine ears of corn which he saw to be eaten up by oxen. Those ears Simon an Essean interpreted to be nine years of his kingdom, and said that now the end of his government was at hand. The fifth day after the Agent of Archelaus is said to have come into Judea, who finding him banqueting with his friends, told him Caesars pleasure was that he must come and answer the accusation, [Ibid.]
About our November, Year of the World 4010 on the seventh day of the Jewish monethmonth Cis…eu, began the tenth year of the raign of Archelaus, (for that which Augustus called ethnarchy, the Jews called a kingdom) …n which was born to Joseph the Priest, a son named Matthias, (in the tenth year of the raign of Archelaus) as it is in the publick Registers, as F…avious Josephus the Historian the son of this Matthias, relates in the beginning of the book of his life: who for this very cause, thought fit to charge what he had written formerly in his books of the wars of the Jews of the nine years of Archelaus, in his books of Antiquities; substituting in them ten years in his kingdom, and ten ears in his dream: of which amendment there was no ne…d, when as he raigned not many days of his tenth ethnarchy, or kingdom; for he was sent into banishment at the end of that year in which M. Aemiliu… Lepidus, and L. Aruntius were Consuls; for under their Consulship, Herod of Palestine (which indeed was no other than this Archelaus) being accused by his brethren, was banished beyond the Alpes, and part of his government confiscated, [as Dio saith in lib. 55. pag. 561.]