Topical Encyclopedia Herodias is a prominent figure in the New Testament, known for her role in the events leading to the execution of John the Baptist. Her account is primarily found in the Gospels of Matthew and Mark, where she is depicted as a woman of ambition and moral compromise.Background and Family Connections Herodias was a member of the Herodian dynasty, a complex and politically influential family in Judea during the time of Jesus. She was the daughter of Aristobulus IV and Berenice, making her a granddaughter of Herod the Great. Herodias was initially married to Herod II (also known as Herod Philip I), her half-uncle, with whom she had a daughter named Salome. However, Herodias left Herod II to marry Herod Antipas, another of her half-uncles, who was the tetrarch of Galilee and Perea. Conflict with John the Baptist Herodias's marriage to Herod Antipas was a source of controversy and was publicly condemned by John the Baptist. According to the Gospel of Mark, John had said to Herod, "It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife" (Mark 6:18). This rebuke was based on Jewish law, which prohibited such unions (Leviticus 18:16; 20:21). Herodias harbored a grudge against John for his outspoken criticism and sought to have him killed. However, Herod Antipas, who feared John and recognized him as a righteous and holy man, initially protected him, albeit keeping him imprisoned (Mark 6:19-20). The Plot Against John the Baptist The opportunity for Herodias to exact her revenge came during Herod Antipas's birthday celebration. Her daughter, Salome, performed a dance that pleased Herod and his guests. In his delight, Herod promised with an oath to give her whatever she asked, up to half his kingdom (Mark 6:22-23). Prompted by her mother, Salome requested the head of John the Baptist on a platter (Mark 6:24-25). Though distressed, Herod felt compelled to honor his promise due to the presence of his guests and the binding nature of his oath. Consequently, he ordered John's execution, and the gruesome request was fulfilled (Mark 6:26-28). Legacy and Moral Implications Herodias is often remembered as a symbol of manipulation and vindictiveness. Her actions, driven by personal vendetta and disregard for moral law, led to the death of a revered prophet. Herodias's account serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the moral decay that can result from prioritizing personal desires over divine commandments. Herodias's life and actions are a stark reminder of the consequences of sin and the destructive power of resentment and revenge. Her willingness to use her daughter as a pawn in her scheme further underscores the moral failings that characterized her life. Torrey's Topical Textbook Mark 6:17For Herod himself had sent forth and laid hold on John, and bound him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife: for he had married her. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Historical Situation Matt. xiii. 53 The Women of the Gospel Narrative the Study of the Early Christian ... Book 18 Footnotes Abraham, his Trial in Egypt; his Humility Index of Subjects. Resources Why did God allow polygamy / bigamy in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did David need Abishag to keep him warm when he had wives and concubines? | GotQuestions.org Does the Bible truly teach monogamy / monogamous relationships? | GotQuestions.org Wives: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Wives of Ministers should be Exemplary Wives: Duties of, to Their Husbands: To be Faithful to Them Wives: Duties of, to Their Husbands: To be Subject to Them Wives: Duties of, to Their Husbands: To Love Them Wives: Duties of, to Their Husbands: To Obey Them Wives: Duties of, to Their Husbands: To Remain With Them for Life Wives: Duties of, to Their Husbands: To Reverence Them Wives: Good are a Blessing to Husbands Wives: Good are a Token of the Favour of God Wives: Good are Benevolent to the Poor Wives: Good are Diligent and Prudent Wives: Good are Praised by Husbands Wives: Good: Bring Honor on Husbands Wives: Good: Duty of, to Unbelieving Husbands Wives: Good: Secure Confidence of Husbands Wives: Good: should be Silent in the Churches Wives: Not to be Selected from Among the Ungodly Wives: should be Adorned with a Meek and Quiet Spirit Wives: should be Adorned with Good Works Wives: should be Adorned with Modesty and Sobriety Wives: should be Adorned: Not With Ornaments Wives: should Seek Religious Instruction from Their Husbands Related Terms |
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