^{17 Ref} For Herod himself had sent men out to take John and put him in prison, because of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, whom he had taken for himself.

^{18 Ref} For John said to Herod, It is wrong for you to have your brother's wife.

^{19 Ref} And Herodias was bitter against him, desiring to put him to death; but she was not able;

^{20 Ref} For Herod was in fear of John, being conscious that he was an upright and holy man, and kept him safe. And hearing him, he was much troubled; and he gave ear to him gladly.

^{21 Ref} And the chance came when Herod on his birthday gave a feast to his lords, and the high captains, and the chief men of Galilee;

^{22 Ref} And when the daughter of Herodias herself came in and did a dance, Herod and those who were at table with him were pleased with her; and the king said to the girl, Make a request for anything and I will give it you.

^{23 Ref} And he took an oath, saying to her, Whatever is your desire I will give it to you, even half of my kingdom.

^{24 Ref} And she went out and said to her mother, What is my request to be? And she said, The head of John the Baptist.

^{25 Ref} And she came in quickly to the king, and said, My desire is that you give me straight away on a plate the head of John the Baptist.

^{26 Ref} And the king was very sad; but because of his oaths, and those who were with him at table, he would not say 'No' to her.

^{27 Ref} And straight away the king sent out one of his armed men, and gave him an order to come back with the head: and he went and took off John's head in prison,