And Herodias had a grudge against him and wanted to put him to death. But she could not, for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he kept him safe. When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed, and yet he heard him gladly.
But an opportunity came when Herod on his birthday gave a banquet for his nobles and military commanders and the leading men of Galilee. For when Herodias’s daughter came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his guests. And the king said to the girl, “Ask me for whatever you wish, and I will give it to you.” And he vowed to her, “Whatever you ask me, I will give you, up to half of my kingdom.” And she went out and said to her mother, “For what should I ask?” And she said, “The head of John the Baptist.” And she came in immediately with haste to the king and asked, saying, “I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter.”
Comment: If you were asked to sum up the character of the three people we have pictured here, what would you say? Differ from or add to my thoughts but this is a thought provoking story! Here are my thoughts…
- Herodias – narcissistic, shallow and cruel.
- Herod – Self-centred and proud. Interested in religious things, but, while scared that there was a greater reality, not prepared to act courageously for what he subconsciously knew to be the truth.
- Salome (Herodias daughter) – a good dancer, tied to her mother’s apron strings and gutless.
Prayer: Help me to stand tall and act boldly for Your Truth, O Lord!
As I read it! 
Thank you Barry for your comments on this passage. I agree with them wholeheartedly. Herodias was the dominant personality, definitely narcissistic and in control of everything. Herod was basically a coward, not willing to stand up for what he knew was right and good. “If you stand for nothing, you will fall for anything.” The daughter Salome, as you said, tied to her mother’s apron strings, and willing to do her mother’s bidding. God bless you.
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