3 ^aFor Herod had laid hold of John and bound him, and put him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife.  ‡

4 Because John had said to him, ^a“It is not lawful for you to have her.”  ‡

6 But when Herod’s birthday was celebrated, the daughter of Herodias danced before them and pleased Herod.

7 Therefore he promised with an oath to give her whatever she might ask.