Biblical Kingdom Ruler
Obodas II
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Ruler at a Glance
Kingdom
Nabataea
Ruler Type
King of Nabataea
Reign
Possibly around 62/61–60/59 BC
Regnal Name
Obodas
Alternate Names
Obodas II; Obodat II
Capital
Petra
Origin
Nabataea
Identification Certainty
Existence and succession disputed
Overview
Obodas II is a poorly documented ruler whose existence and position in the succession have been debated.
Biography
Some reconstructions of Nabataean royal history include Obodas II between Aretas III and Malichus I. The reign would have been very brief, near the time when Roman influence in Syria and Judea was increasing. Scholars have questioned the evidence for this ruler, and his existence should not be presented as beyond dispute. No detailed biography, family history, or building program can be reconstructed securely.
Historical Significance
Illustrates uncertainty in the surviving Nabataean royal sequence.
Major Events
Possible short reign following Aretas III.
Biblical Significance
No direct biblical connection is known.
Primary Sources
Nabataean numismatic and chronological studies