John the Baptist – Be careful who you criticize

It turns out that opening your mouth when you could remain silent can cost you your head

Baptism of Christ by Guido Reni

Many people who have the good fortune to know some of the New Testament stories are familiar with Jesus’ second cousin, John the Baptist. Just like Samson, John was a nazarite so he didn’t drink wine or cut his hair. John isn’t famous for being hairy though. He’s famous because he baptized Jesus by having Jesus walk out into a river and then sprinkling water on Jesus’ head.



Here’s the thing though; John was kinda a blabbermouth and just couldn’t keep quiet when King Herod married his brother’s wife and cousin Herodias. John said it was illegal for Herod the take his cousin Herodias for himself because Philip was still alive. As you might imagine, Herodias was upset and convinced Herod to have John thrown into prison. Of course she also wanted John dead, but Herod was worried that because the population at large had a high opinion of John, people would be upset.



Salome by Franz von Stuck

You might think this story is over, but as soon as Herod’s birthday rolled around, Herodias’ daughter Salome danced for Herod. This wasn’t no innocent dance though. Herod’s step-daughter and first-cousin once-removed and niece put on a SHOW! Herod was pleased. Herod was so pleased that as soon as he regained his composure he promised Salome he would give her anything she asked. BINGO! Of course this was the whole reason Herodias had her daughter give Herod a lap-dance. Herodias was still after John’s head.

When Salome told Herod what she wanted most was John the Baptist’s head in a basket, Herod regretted his lust-driven promise because he was still reluctant to have John executed. He had promised though, so he gave the appropriate orders. John’s head was delivered to Salome who then gave it to her mother.

Moral: if you can’t get your husband to do what you want, have your daughter give him a lap-dance.

Ref: Matthew 14:3-11