Correct Option: A. He was troubled Detailed Explanation: When Herod the Great heard the news about the birth of Jesus, he was indeed troubled. This reaction is documented in the Gospel of Matthew, specifically in Matthew 2:1-3, which states that when the Magi (wise men) arrived in Jerusalem asking about the newborn king of the Jews, King Herod was disturbed, and all of Jerusalem with him. Step-by-Step Breakdown:

1. Context of Herod's Rule: Herod was the king of Judea at the time of Jesus' birth. He was known for his paranoia and ruthlessness, often eliminating anyone he perceived as a threat to his power, including members of his own family.
2. Arrival of the Magi: The Magi came from the East, guided by a star, to find the newborn king. Their inquiry about the "king of the Jews" directly threatened Herod's authority, as he was the reigning king.
3. Herod's Reaction: Upon hearing this news, Herod felt threatened. The term "troubled" indicates a state of anxiety and fear. He was not only concerned about losing his throne but also about the potential uprising that could arise from the birth of a new king.
4. Herod's Actions Following His Reaction: Herod's troubled state led him to take drastic actions. He called together the chief priests and scribes to inquire where the Messiah was to be born. He later devised a plan to eliminate Jesus by ordering the massacre of all male infants in Bethlehem, which shows the extent of his fear and the lengths he would go to protect his power.

Why the Other Options are Wrong:

• B. He became calm: This option is incorrect because Herod's reaction was anything but calm. His troubled state led to fear and paranoia, which drove him to plot against Jesus. A calm reaction would not align with his character or the historical context.
• C. He was excited: This option is also incorrect. Excitement would imply a positive reaction to the news of Jesus' birth, which contradicts the narrative. Herod viewed the birth of Jesus as a threat, not an opportunity for joy or celebration.
• D. He sent gifts: This option is misleading. While the Magi brought gifts to Jesus, Herod did not send gifts. Instead, he attempted to deceive the Magi into revealing Jesus' location so he could eliminate the perceived threat. This option misrepresents Herod's intentions and actions.

Summary of Key Points:

• Herod was troubled upon hearing about Jesus' birth due to fear of losing his power.
• His reaction led to a series of actions aimed at eliminating Jesus, including consulting religious leaders and plotting a massacre.
• The other options (calm, excited, sent gifts) do not accurately reflect Herod's character or the historical context of the situation.

This understanding of Herod's reaction is crucial for grasping the broader narrative of Jesus' early life and the political tensions of the time.