The answer is: King

Luke 1:5

Herod, famously known throughout the New Testament, ruled as king during a pivotal time in Judea. Understanding Herod's context enriches our grasp of the Scripture. When Luke mentions Herod in the opening chapter, he refers to Herod the Great. He’s not the naval-gazing monarch of fairy tales; he came to power in a tumultuous period and had a reputation not just for his contributions to grand building projects, including the renovation of the Second Temple, but also for his ruthless politics. That whole biblical narrative set the stage for immense cultural and even cosmic transformations.

Herod ruled like a double-edged sword—on one side artistically, with spectacular constructions that wowed the masses; on the other, with brutality, famously executing members of his own family to keep his throne secure. But let's remember that in the grand scope of biblical history, kings were often seen as intermediaries between God and His people. Despite, or perhaps because of, his troubled rule, Herod became a fascinating player on the cosmic chessboard at the time of Jesus' birth.

And here's a cool trivia thought: Herod's infamous order to kill the innocents evokes echoes in the Hebrew scriptures, bringing to mind Pharaoh's decree in Moses' time—a motif of oppression and deliverance underscores both narratives, highlighting the ages of peril and hope throughout biblical history. So when we think about Herod, we grapple with power, fear, and the destiny intertwined with the birth of a radically transformative figure, Jesus.