The correct option is D. Archelaus. Detailed Explanation:

1. Historical Context: After the death of King Herod the Great in 4 BCE, his kingdom was divided among his three sons. Herod had been a significant ruler, known for his extensive building projects and for his role in the biblical narrative surrounding the birth of Jesus. Upon his death, the Roman Empire decided to split his territory to maintain control and prevent any one ruler from becoming too powerful.
2. Herod's Sons: Herod the Great had three notable sons who were given different parts of his kingdom:
3. Archelaus: He was given Judea, Samaria, and Idumea. Archelaus ruled from 4 BCE until 6 CE, when he was deposed by the Romans due to his misrule and cruelty.
4. Antipas: He was given Galilee and Perea. Antipas is often referred to in the New Testament and is known for his role in the execution of John the Baptist and his interactions with Jesus.
5. Phasael: He was not a son of Herod but rather a brother. He was appointed as a governor of Jerusalem but did not succeed Herod as a ruler.
6. Why Archelaus is Correct: Archelaus is the only son of Herod who succeeded him directly as the ruler of Judea. His reign was marked by unrest and dissatisfaction among the Jewish population, leading to his eventual removal by the Romans. This historical fact is crucial in understanding the political landscape of Judea during the early years of the Roman Empire.

Analysis of Other Options:

• A. Phasael: This option is incorrect because Phasael was not one of Herod's sons. He was Herod's brother and was appointed as a governor. He did not have the authority or the title of king after Herod's death.
• B. Antipas: While Antipas was indeed one of Herod's sons and ruled Galilee, he did not succeed Herod as the ruler of Judea. Instead, he ruled a different region and was known for his interactions with Jesus and John the Baptist. Therefore, he is not the correct answer.
• C. Herodias: This option is incorrect as well. Herodias was the wife of Herod Antipas and the daughter of Aristobulus IV, making her a member of the Herodian dynasty, but she did not rule Judea. Herodias is more famously known for her role in the execution of John the Baptist, but she did not succeed Herod the Great.

Summary of Key Points:

• Archelaus was the son of Herod the Great who succeeded him as ruler of Judea.
• Antipas ruled Galilee, not Judea, and Phasael was Herod's brother, not a son.
• Herodias was a significant figure in the Herodian dynasty but did not hold a ruling position.
• Understanding the division of Herod's kingdom is crucial for grasping the political dynamics of Judea during this period.

This thorough understanding of the Herodian dynasty and the roles of its members is essential for anyone studying Christian Religious Studies, particularly in the context of the New Testament and early Christian history.