1. At that time Herod the ruler heard the news about Jesus.
2. He said to his servants, "This is John the Baptist. He’s been raised from the dead. This is why these miraculous powers are at work through him."
3. Herod had arrested John, bound him, and put him in prison because of Herodias, the wife of Herod’s brother Philip.
4. That’s because John told Herod, "It’s against the law for you to marry her."
5. Although Herod wanted to kill him, he feared the crowd because they thought John was a prophet.
6. But at Herod’s birthday party Herodias’ daughter danced in front of the guests and thrilled Herod.
7. Then he swore to give her anything she asked.
8. At her mother’s urging, the girl said, "Give me the head of John the Baptist here on a plate."
9. Although the king was upset, because of his solemn pledge and his guests he commanded that they give it to her.