[14:1] At that time Herod, the ruler of Galilee, heard about Jesus.
[14:2] “He is really John the Baptist, who has come back to life,” he told his officials. “That is why he has this power to perform miracles.”
[14:3] For Herod had earlier ordered John's arrest, and he had him tied up and put in prison. He had done this because of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife.
[14:4] For some time John the Baptist had told Herod, “It isn't right for you to be married to Herodias!”
[14:5] Herod wanted to kill him, but he was afraid of the Jewish people, because they considered John to be a prophet.
[14:6] On Herod's birthday the daughter of Herodias danced in front of the whole group. Herod was so pleased
[14:7] that he promised her, “I swear that I will give you anything you ask for!”
[14:8] At her mother's suggestion she asked him, “Give me here and now the head of John the Baptist on a plate!”
[14:9] The king was sad, but because of the promise he had made in front of all his guests he gave orders that her wish be granted.
[14:10] So he had John beheaded in prison.
[14:11] The head was brought in on a plate and given to the girl, who took it to her mother.
[14:12] John's disciples came, carried away his body, and buried it; then they went and told Jesus.