2024_10_14 Insight Post- Kim Feld
This week’s reading- Matthew 14:6-11, Mark 6:22-28
Although the name Salome is not used in the passages we are reading this week, history holds that this was the name of Herodias’ daughter. It is believed the girl was probably between 12 and 14 years old. John the Baptist criticized Herod’s choice to marry his brother’s wife, Herodias. Because of this, Herodias held a grudge against John and saw her opportunity to seek revenge.
There’s so much in these brief passages that we could explore about motherhood and the role we have (for better or worse) in our children’s lives. However, as I read these passages, something stood out: Salome added to her mother’s request. Herod was so “pleased” by his stepdaughter’s performance that he foolishly offered her anything she asked for up to half his kingdom. Salome went to confer with her mom about what she should ask for, and Herodias’ reply was, “The head of John the Baptist!” Salome added to the demand by asking for the head “right now” and “on a platter” (Barker & Kohlenberger, 2004). Yikes.
It has been said that more is caught than taught in parenting our kids. They watch us, and the example we give can become normalized to them, even when it’s dysfunctional and out of bounds. Although what we see of Salome is not a stellar example of young womanhood, I have to look at the example she followed. I wonder if the rest of her life followed that trajectory or if she ever realized the depth of the depravity she was raised in.
Parenthood brings enormous responsibility, but even if everything was done right (I don’t know anyone who has ever lived up to that!), we each have personal choice as we become adults. It is tough to untangle a messy upbringing, but God faithfully uses every piece given to Him. We just have to ask.
There are no winners and no character traits to emulate in this story, but it is a cautionary tale about the lengths our sinfulness will take us. We see the impact of hatred, revenge, and lust on full display. It’s a tragic ending to John the Baptist’s life, although we know that the glory of Heaven awaited him. Our lives may not be as dramatic as what is portrayed in this story, but the end result of hatred and revenge can still be costly. Our example and our choices matter.
Kim Feld
Executive Director of Education and Outreach
Reference: Barker, K. L., & Kohlenberger, J. R. (2004). The Expositor’s Bible Commentary: New Testament. Zondervan Academic.