14. King Herod heard of this, because Jesus’ name had become well known. Some said, “John the Baptist has been raised from the dead, and that’s why supernatural powers are at work in him.”
15. But others said, “He’s Elijah.” Still others said, “He’s a prophet — like one of the prophets.”
16. When Herod heard of it, he said, “John, the one I beheaded, has been raised! ”
17. For Herod himself had given orders to arrest John and to chain him in prison on account of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, whom he had married.
18. John had been telling Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife! ”
19. So Herodias held a grudge against him and wanted to kill him. But she could not,
20. because Herod was in awe of John and was protecting him, knowing he was a righteous and holy man. When Herod heard him he would be very disturbed, yet would hear him gladly.
21. Now an opportune time came on his birthday, when Herod gave a banquet for his nobles, military commanders, and the leading men of Galilee.
22. When Herodias’s own daughter came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his guests. The king said to the girl, “Ask me whatever you want, and I’ll give it to you.”
23. So he swore oaths to her: “Whatever you ask me I will give you, up to half my kingdom.”
24. Then she went out and said to her mother, “What should I ask for? ”“John the Baptist’s head! ” she said.
25. Immediately she hurried to the king and said, “I want you to give me John the Baptist’s head on a platter — right now! ”