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Under Roman Occupation
When Jesus was born in Bethlehem, Palestine, the ancient land of Israel, was under
Roman occupation. Roman soldiers were like a military police force, keeping law and order. Unfortunately, from the Jewish point of view, it
meant that the land was also tainted by pagan, Roman religion, and people were forced to pay taxes using the Roman coins. These coins bore the image of the
'divine' emperor. To the Jews it was idolatry. Most Jews hoped that the Romans would be driven out or leave.
Caesar Augustus
Octavian became the first Emperor of Rome and it was during his reign that Jesus was born. He was given the title Augustus. Because he was regarded as a god, Rome felt that he ought to be revered and worshipped. Such is the meaning of the title Augustus. In spite of the great feelings against Rome,
nevertheless, the Romans had brought a time of peace and safety. With the many good roads, which the Romans built, travel became easier and safer.
Herod the Great
At the time of Jesus' birth, the King of the Jews was King Herod - Herod the Great. He was not liked by the Jews because he was only half Jewish. (He was also partly Edomite - an enemy nation). Further, he had his power and authority from Rome. In effect, he was no more than a "puppet" king.
Herod died in 4 BC which gives us a clue to a more accurate understanding of when Jesus was born.
Evidence of the Roman occupation was everywhere. Garrisons of soldiers, the Roman army uniform, weapons and so on.
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The emperor's image caused great offence to many Jews. To them,
the cult of emperor worship was nothing less than blasphemy. A graven image of a human head on a coin was a direct breach of the Ten Commandments where such idolatry is forbidden.
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