A Dictionary of Greek and Roman biography and mythology

3. Grandson of No. 2, was the son of Alexander and brother of Herod's wife Mariamne. His mother, Alexandra, indignant at Herod's having conferred the high-priesthood on the obscure Ananelus, endeavoured to obtain that office for her son from Antony through the influence of Cleopatra. Herod, fearing the consequences of this application, and urged by Mariamne's entreaties, deposed Ananelus and made Aristobulus high-priest, the latter being only 17 years old at the time. The king, however, still suspecting Alexandra, and keeping a strict and annoying watch upon her movements, she renewed her complaints and designs against him with Cleopatra, and at length made an attempt to escape into Egypt with her son. Herod discovered this, and affected to pardon it; but soon after he caused Aristobulus to be treacherously drowned at Jericho, B. C. 35. (J. AJ 15.2, 3; Bell. Jud. 1.22.2.)