Herodias is a significant figure in the New Testament, known for her role in the events leading to the execution of John the Baptist. She was a member of the Herodian dynasty, a family that played a crucial role in the political landscape of Judea during the time of Jesus.

Family Background and Marriage:

Herodias was the daughter of Aristobulus IV and Berenice, making her a granddaughter of Herod the Great. Her familial connections placed her in a position of influence and power. 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:

Her marriage to Herod Antipas was a source of controversy and was publicly condemned by John the Baptist. According to the Gospel accounts, John criticized Herodias and Herod Antipas for their unlawful union, as Herodias was still considered the wife of Herod II. This condemnation is recorded in the Gospel of Mark: "For John had been telling Herod, 'It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.'" (Mark 6:18).

Herodias harbored a grudge against John the Baptist for his outspoken criticism and sought to have him killed. However, Herod Antipas, who feared John and regarded him as a righteous and holy man, initially protected him, albeit keeping him imprisoned.

The Death of 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 response, Herod promised with an oath to give her whatever she asked, up to half his kingdom. Prompted by her mother, Salome requested the head of John the Baptist on a platter. Though distressed, Herod Antipas complied due to his oaths and the presence of his guests, leading to John's execution (Mark 6:21-28).

Legacy and Influence:

Herodias's actions and the subsequent martyrdom of John the Baptist have been subjects of theological reflection and artistic representation throughout Christian history. Herodias is often depicted as a symbol of vindictiveness and moral corruption, contrasting with the prophetic integrity of John the Baptist.

Herodias's life and actions are intertwined with the political and religious tensions of her time, illustrating the complex interplay between personal ambition, familial loyalty, and the prophetic voice calling for repentance and righteousness. Her account serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of unchecked ambition and the rejection of divine truth.Hero'di-as (6 Occurrences)

Matthew 14:3
For Herod having laid hold on John, did bind him, and did put him in prison, because of Herodias his brother Philip's wife,
(See RSV)

Matthew 14:6
But the birthday of Herod being kept, the daughter of Herodias danced in the midst, and did please Herod,
(See RSV)

Mark 6:17
For Herod himself, having sent forth, did lay hold on John, and bound him in the prison, because of Herodias the wife of Philip his brother, because he married her,
(See RSV)

Mark 6:19
and Herodias was having a quarrel with him, and was willing to kill him, and was not able,
(See RSV)

Mark 6:22
and the daughter of that Herodias having come in, and having danced, and having pleased Herod and those reclining (at meat) with him, the king said to the damsel, 'Ask of me whatever thou wilt, and I will give to thee,'
(See RSV)

Luke 3:19
and Herod the tetrarch, being reproved by him concerning Herodias the wife of Philip his brother, and concerning all the evils that Herod did,
(See RSV)

Hero'di-as (6 Occurrences)
Hero'di-as. Herodias, Hero'di-as. Herodias's . Multi-Version Concordance
Hero'di-as (6 Occurrences). Matthew 14:3 For Herod having ...
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Herodias (7 Occurrences)

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Herodias's (1 Occurrence)

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