An avid supporter of the aristocratic Hellenist faction, his reign was constantly challenged by opponents, among them a brother, Antigonus, with a rival claim to the throne and the populist Pharisee party. He suppressed these rivals brutally, killing his brother and many leading Pharisees, earning further contempt. Nevertheless, he also showed considerable competence as a military leader, repelling invaders and expanding the country's boders. Upon his death, he was succeeded by his wife.