A New Beginning

CHAPTER 13

  Interlude

  23CE - 28CE

  In 23 CE Emperor Tiberius' son Julius Caesar Drusus dies. From that point forward, Tiberius seems to lose interest in the Empire and occupies himself with the pursuit of pleasure.

  At the same time, Lucius Aelius Sejanus begins to dominate the Roman Senate and the Emperor. He expanded the Praetorian Guard 84 beyond being a bodyguard to an independent arm of government thus making him powerful - and feared.

  In 24CE, the Roman war against Numidia and Mauretania 85 ends with their annexation. In the same year, Tacfarinas is defeated and killed.

  In 26CE, Pontius Pilate is appointed as prefect - or governor - of Judea.

  Also in 26CE, Emperor Tiberius retires to Capri, leaving the Praetorian Guard under Lucius Aelius Sejanus in charge of city of Rome, and the Roman Empire.

  The major issue in Jerusalem was the introduction of army legion standards bearing the image of the Roman Emperor. Under the eagle emblem was often placed the head of the reigning emperor, which was to the army, the object of adoration. The Jews considered them as graven images that trampled on their laws.

  Joseph Caiaphas, commonly known simply as Caiaphas in the New Testament, was the Roman-appointed (18CE) Jewish high priest and would continue until 31CE.

  IN 28CE, the Sanhedrin relinquished its power to try capital cases and such power was transferred to Rome and the Roman Governor.