How long did John the Baptist stay in prison?

Answer 1

A:

Based on the writings of of the first- century Jewish historian, Josephus, it seems likely that John spent very little time in prison. John was imprisoned after the wedding of Herod Antipas to Herodias in 34 CE, and executed before King Antipas of Nabatea attacked and defeated Herod in 36 CE, an event which the Jews believed was divine retribution for the execution of John the Baptist. This places John's arrest no earlier than 35 CE and his execution no later than 36 CE.

There would have been some urgency on Herod's part in carrying out the execution, since Josephus says Herod feared that John could stir up a rebellion among the Jews. The relevant passage in Antiquities of the Jews, Book 18 says:

"Now many people came in crowds to him, for they were greatly moved by his words. Herod, who feared that the great influence John had over the masses might put them into his power and enable him to raise a rebellion (for they seemed ready to do anything he should advise), thought it best to put him to death. In this way, he might prevent any mischief John might cause, and not bring himself into difficulties by sparing a man who might make him repent of it when it would be too late. Accordingly John was sent as a prisoner, out of Herod's suspicious temper, to Macherus, the castle I already mentioned, and was put to death."

Answer 2

I think he was only imprisoned once, and was ultimately executed.

Answer 3

Yes John the baptist was put in prison by Herod, and he was brought from prison to be beheaded.