What led to the beheading of John the Baptist?

Answer 1

A:The gospels and Josephus, a first-century Jewish historian, agree that John the Baptist was executed because he publicly criticised Herod Antpas' marriage to Herodias, his brother's former wife. From that point on, they part company.

The synoptic gospels say that John was imprisoned right at the beginning of Jesus' mission then beheaded when the daughter of Herodias, who pleased Antipas with her dancing, asked for John's head on a platter.

The historical account says that John was executed in faraway Macherus and not necessarily by beheading. The marriage took place in 34 CE and Antipas ordered John to be executed in 35 or 36 CE, not because Herodias had wanted his head on a platter but out of fear that he was stirring the Jews up for rebellion. The relevant text from Book 18 of Antiquities of the Jews:

"Now many people came in crowds to him, for they were greatly moved by his words. Herod, who feared that the great influence John had over the masses might put them into his power and enable him to raise a rebellion (for they seemed ready to do anything he should advise), thought it best to put him to death. In this way, he might prevent any mischief John might cause, and not bring himself into difficulties by sparing a man who might make him repent of it when it would be too late. Accordingly John was sent as a prisoner, out of Herod's suspicious temper, to Macherus, the castle I already mentioned, and was put to death."