Costobar°

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COSTOBAR°

COSTOBAR °, prominent Idumean of the first century b.c.e. (his ancestors served as priests of the Idumean god, Koz). At the time of Herod's capture of Jerusalem in 37 b.c.e., Costobar was given the task of blocking the city's exits to prevent the escape of all those opposing the new king. Convinced of his loyalty, Herod subsequently appointed him governor of Idumea and Gaza. Salome, Herod's sister, was given to Costobar in marriage, after her first husband's execution. Costobar seems to have plotted against the king. For twelve years he gave shelter to the sons of Baba, archenemies of Herod, and as governor of Idumea offered to support Queen Cleopatra of Egypt in her attempt to obtain control of territory. According to Josephus, he was pardoned by Herod after the plot was discovered, although he was eventually divorced by Salome, who revealed the full extent of her husband's treachery. As a result, Costobar, together with the sons of Baba, were seized and put to death (c. 25 b.c.e.).

bibliography:

Jos., Ant., 15:253–66; A. Schalit, Hordos ha-Melekh (19643), 82–84.

[Isaiah Gafni]