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At that time Herod, ruler of Galilee, heard the news about Jesus.
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He said to his officials, "This is John the Baptizer! He has come back to life. That's why he has the power to perform these miracles."
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Herod had arrested John, tied him up, and put him in prison. Herod did this for Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip.
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John had been telling Herod, "It's not right for you to be married to her."
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So Herod wanted to kill John. However, he was afraid of the people because they thought John was a prophet.
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When Herod celebrated his birthday, Herodias' daughter danced for his guests. Herod was so delighted with her that
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he swore he would give her anything she wanted.
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Urged by her mother, she said, "Give me the head of John the Baptizer on a platter."
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The king regretted his promise. But because of his oath and his guests, he ordered that her wish be granted.
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He had John's head cut off in prison.
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So the head was brought on a platter and given to the girl, who took it to her mother.