Felix, Antonius

Related Category: Biblical Proper Names: Biographies

fl. A.D. 60, Roman procurator of Judaea, Samaria, Galilee, and Peraea (c.A.D. 52–A.D. 60), a freedman of Claudius I. He was judge of the apostle Paul. He married Drusilla, a Herodian princess. He was succeeded by Porcius Festus, and when recalled to Rome, he escaped being sentenced to death by Nero only through the intercession of his brother, Pallas. His oppressive rule caused deep resentment among the Jews and strengthened the anti-Roman party.