Albert Barnes Commentary Acts 12:21

"And upon a set day Herod arrayed himself in royal apparel, and sat on the throne, and made an oration unto them." — Acts 12:21 (ASV)

And upon a set day. An appointed, public day. This was the second day of the sports and games which Herod celebrated in Caesarea in honour of Claudius Caesar. Josephus has given an account of this occurrence, which coincides remarkably with the narrative here. The account is contained in his Antiquities of the Jews, Book 19, Chapter 8, Section 2, and is as follows:

"Now when Agrippa had reigned three years over all Judea, he came to the city Caesarea, which was formerly called Strato's Tower; and there he exhibited shows in honour of Caesar, upon his being informed that there was a certain festival celebrated to make vows for his safety. At which festival a great multitude was gathered of the principal persons, and those of dignity throughout his province. On the second day of which shows, he put on a garment made wholly of silver, etc."

Arrayed in royal apparel. In the apparel of a king. Josephus thus describes the dress which Herod wore on that occasion:

"He put on a garment made wholly of silver, and of a wonderful weave, and early in the morning came into the theatre, the place of the shows and games. At that time, the silver of his garment, being illuminated by the first reflection of the sun's rays upon it, shone in a surprising manner, and was so resplendent as to spread a horror over those who looked intently on him."

Sat upon his throne. This does not denote a throne in the usual sense of that word, but a high seat in the theatre, where he sat, and from where he could have a full view of the games and sports. From this place he made his speech.

Made an oration. Addressed the people. What was the subject of this speech is not indicated by Luke or Josephus.