Matthew 14:1-6

John the Baptist's Head Is Cut Off

1 At that time Herod, the ruler of Galilee and Perea, heard reports about Jesus.

2 He said to his attendants, "This is John the Baptist. He has risen from the dead! That is why he has the power to do miracles."

3 Herod had arrested John. He had tied him up and put him in prison because of Herodias. She was the wife of Herod's brother Philip.

4 John had been saying to Herod, "It is against the Law for you to have her."

5 Herod wanted to kill John. But he was afraid of the people, because they thought John was a prophet.

6 On Herod's birthday the daughter of Herodias danced for Herod and his guests. She pleased Herod very much.