Mark 6:18-28

18For John had been telling Herod, “It is not permitted for you to have your brother’s wife.”

19Now Herodias had a grudge against John and wanted to kill him, but she wasn’t able.

20For Herod was in awe of John and kept him safe, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man. When he listened to John he was confused, but he still listened gladly.

21An opportunity came—when Herod, on his birthday, gave a banquet for his high officials, military brass, and the leaders of the Galilee.

22When the daughter of Herodias came in and danced, she pleased Herod and those reclining with him. And the king said to the girl, “Ask me for whatever you want, and I’ll give it to you!”

23He vowed to her, “Whatever you ask of me I’ll give you, up to half of my kingdom!”

24She left the room and said to her mother, “What should I ask for?” Her mother said, “The head of John the Immerser!”

25Immediately she rushed to the king and requested, “I want you to give me, right now, the head of John the Immerser on a platter!”

26The king became very sorrowful; but because of his oaths and those reclining with him, he didn’t want to refuse her.

27Immediately the king sent an executioner and gave orders to bring John’s head. And the executioner went out and beheaded John in the prison,

28brought his head on a platter, and gave it to the girl; and the girl gave it to her mother.