 And Herodias had a grudge against him and wanted to kill him. But she could not, for Herod feared John, knowing that he was righteous and holy man, and he protected him. When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed, and yet he liked to listen to him. But an opportunity came when Herod, on his birthday, gave a banquet for his courtiers and officers and for the leaders of Galilee.