English Standard Version

Matthew 14:5-12 English Standard Version (ESV)

5. And though he wanted to put him to death, he feared the people, because they held him to be a prophet.

6. But when Herod’s birthday came, the daughter of Herodias danced before the company and pleased Herod,

7. so that he promised with an oath to give her whatever she might ask.

8. Prompted by her mother, she said, “Give me the head of John the Baptist here on a platter.”

9. And the king was sorry, but because of his oaths and his guests he commanded it to be given.

10. He sent and had John beheaded in the prison,

11. and his head was brought on a platter and given to the girl, and she brought it to her mother.

12. And his disciples came and took the body and buried it, and they went and told Jesus.