Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Matthew 2:22

"But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judaea in the room of his father Herod, he was afraid to go thither; and being warned [of God] in a dream, he withdrew into the parts of Galilee," — Matthew 2:22 (ASV)

Probably Joseph had expected Herod Antipas to reign over the entire kingdom; but Herod the Great made a late change in his will, dividing his kingdom into three parts. Archelaus, known for his ruthlessness, was given Judea, Samaria, and Idumea. Joseph, guided by the fifth and final dream, settled the family in Galilee.