Marcos 6

22 When the daughter of Herodias herself came in and danced, and pleased Herod and those reclining with him, the king said to the girl, "Ask me whatever you want, and I will give it to you." 23 He even swore to her, "Whatever you may ask me I will give you, up to half of my kingdom!"*Herod had doubtless already drunk more than was good for him (he had probably started before the banquet), so his judgment was impaired. The girl’s request sobered him up—too late.

24 So she went out and said to her mother, "What shall I ask?" And she said, "The head of John the Baptist!" 25 Hurrying in directly to the king she requested, saying, "I want you to give me right now the head of John the Baptist on a platter!" 26 Though the king became very sorry, because of his oaths and of his guests he did not want to refuse her. 27 Immediately the king sent an executioner and commanded the head to be brought. So he went and beheaded him in the prison, 28 brought the head on a platter, and gave it to the girl; and the girl gave it to her mother.*What effect do you suppose all that had on the party? The sight of that gory head would be enough to turn anyone’s stomach. (And I wonder what she did with the head.)