Biblical Kingdom Ruler
Malichus II
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Ruler at a Glance
Kingdom
Nabataea
Ruler Type
King of Nabataea
Reign
Approximately AD 40–70
Regnal Name
Malichus
Alternate Names
Malichus II; Malchus II
Capital
Petra
Origin
Nabataea
Identification Certainty
Historically attested; chronology approximate
Overview
Malichus II ruled Nabataea during the middle of the first century AD, including the outbreak of the Jewish revolt.
Biography
Malichus II succeeded Aretas IV around AD 40. His reign overlapped with the growth of the early Christian movement and the rising tensions that culminated in the Jewish revolt against Rome. Josephus reports that the Nabataean king supplied forces to the Roman campaign in Judea. The kingdom retained its independence under Roman predominance. Nabataean coinage and inscriptions also illuminate the royal family and its public image.
Historical Significance
Links Nabataea to the Jewish revolt and the Roman military response.
Major Events
Nabataean participation alongside Roman forces during the Jewish revolt.
Biblical Significance
Contemporary of the New Testament era and the events surrounding the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70.
Primary Sources
Josephus, Jewish War 3; Nabataean royal coins and inscriptions