Matthew 14:1-8 ▼

1 At that time Herod [Antipas], the tetrarch [who governed a portion of Palestine including Galilee and Perea], heard the reports about Jesus,

2 and said to his attendants, “This is John the Baptist; he has been raised from the dead, and that is why the miraculous powers are at work in him.”

3 For Herod had John arrested and bound him and put him in prison [at the fortress of Machaerus, east of the Jordan, to keep him away] because of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip,

4 for John had said to him, “It is not lawful (morally right) for you to have her [living with you as your wife].”

5 Although Herod wished to have him put to death, he feared the people, for they regarded John as a prophet.

6 But when Herod’s birthday came, [his niece Salome], the daughter of Herodias danced [immodestly] before them and pleased and fascinated Herod,

7 so much that he promised with an oath to give her whatever she asked.

8 She, being coached by her mother [Herodias], said, “Give me here on a platter the head of John the Baptist.”