Biblical Kingdom Ruler
Aretas II
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Ruler at a Glance
Kingdom
Nabataea
Ruler Type
King of Nabataea
Reign
Approximately 120/110–96 BC
Regnal Name
Aretas
Alternate Names
Haretat II; Erotimus
Capital
Petra
Origin
Nabataea
Identification Certainty
Historically attested; early chronology approximate
Overview
Aretas II ruled as Nabataea became a major neighbor and rival of Hasmonean Judea.
Biography
Aretas II is associated with the Nabataean kingdom during the late second and early first centuries BC. Josephus describes Gaza appealing to an Arabian king for assistance when Alexander Jannaeus besieged the city. Nabataean interests centered on the trade routes linking Arabia, Petra, and Mediterranean ports. The dating of the beginning of his reign differs among reconstructions.
Historical Significance
His reign provides background to Nabataean–Hasmonean competition over Gaza and regional trade.
Major Events
Gaza seeks Arabian assistance during its conflict with Alexander Jannaeus.
Biblical Significance
The king is not named in the canonical biblical books; his reign belongs to the Hasmonean setting.
Primary Sources
Josephus, Antiquities 13; Nabataean king lists