New Testament
Matthew 14:6
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On Herod's birthday, the daughter of Herodias danced for the guests and delighted Herod.
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But when Herod’s birthday was kept, the daughter of Herodias danced before them, and pleased Herod.
What Matthew 14:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse describes a significant event during a birthday celebration for King Herod. Herodias' daughter performed a dance that captivated Herod and his guests. The context suggests that this dance was not just entertainment; it was a pivotal moment that led to serious consequences. Herod, pleased by the performance, was likely influenced by the atmosphere of the celebration and the presence of his guests. This moment highlights the interplay of power, desire, and the influence of public opinion. Herod's reaction sets the stage for the subsequent events that unfold in the narrative, illustrating how personal choices can have far-reaching implications. The dance symbolizes not only entertainment but also the manipulation of power and the consequences of indulgence. It serves as a reminder of how easily one can be swayed by external influences, especially in a celebratory context where judgment may be clouded by pleasure and pride.
How to apply Matthew 14:6 to your life
This verse encourages us to be mindful of the influences around us, especially in social settings. It reminds us to consider how our choices, driven by external pressures or desires, can lead to significant consequences. Staying grounded in our values is essential, even during celebrations.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from John the Baptist's story: The Death of John (Matthew 14:6–12)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 14:6 mean?
Matthew 14:6 describes a moment during King Herod's birthday celebration when the daughter of Herodias performed a dance that pleased Herod and his guests. This event is significant as it sets off a chain of events leading to serious consequences, highlighting the impact of entertainment and public opinion.
What is the significance of the dance in Matthew 14:6?
The dance in Matthew 14:6 symbolizes the influence of entertainment and the manipulation of power. It illustrates how a moment of pleasure can lead to critical decisions, emphasizing the potential consequences of indulgence in social settings.
How does Matthew 14:6 relate to public opinion?
Matthew 14:6 shows how public opinion can sway personal decisions, as Herod's reaction to the dance was influenced by the presence of his guests. This highlights the importance of being aware of external influences in our choices.
What lessons can we learn from Matthew 14:6?
From Matthew 14:6, we learn to be mindful of the influences around us, especially during celebrations. It serves as a reminder to stay grounded in our values and consider the potential consequences of our choices.
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