Bible Figure
Manahen
Manaen was a prophet and teacher in the church at Antioch who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, probably Herod Antipas. He belonged to the leadership group present when the Holy Spirit called Barnabas and Saul to missionary work.
Biography
Acts 13 lists Manaen among the prophets and teachers at Antioch. Luke adds the unusual biographical detail that he had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch. The wording may indicate a foster-brother, childhood companion, or someone raised within the same courtly environment. The Herod in view is generally understood as Herod Antipas, ruler of Galilee during the ministries of John the Baptist and Jesus. Manaen's presence in Christian leadership therefore creates a striking contrast: one man from that social world became a leader in the church while Herod Antipas opposed John and participated in the proceedings surrounding Jesus. Manaen joined the other Antioch leaders in worship and fasting when the Spirit directed them to set apart Barnabas and Saul.
Biblical Significance
Manaen demonstrates the socially diverse reach of the Gospel. A man connected with the Herodian court became a Christian prophet and teacher and participated in commissioning the mission that would carry the Gospel widely into the Gentile world.