St John The Baptist
St John the Baptist was born in ain-karim a town south west of Jerusalem in 4bc. He was the son of the priest Zacharias and Elizabeth. He lived as a hermit in the desert of Jordan until he was 30 when he began to preach on the banks of Jordan against the evil of the times. He attracted large crowds of people. When Jesus came to him, he recognised him as the messiah and baptised him saying 'it is I who need baptism from you'
Shortly after he had baptised Jesus, He began to denounce the marriage of Herod Antipas, ruler of Galilee. Herod had divorced his own wife and taken herodias, the wife of his half brother Philip. John the Baptist declared it is not lawful for you to have her so Herod threw him in prison. Not only did Herod fear John and his disciples, he also knew him to be a righteous man so he didn't kill him.
Small Passion: 16. Christ before Herod
Palestine after Herod's death
Spinello Aretino - Feast of Herod - WGA21681One day Herod gave a fine banquet to celebrate his birthday. His entire court was there. Herodias's daughter Salome pleased Herod when she danced to entertain the company so Herod promised her anything she wanted.(even half his kingdom)
Prompted by her mother she asked for the head of St John the Baptist. Because of his pride Herod, though deeply sorry, could not decline the request.
St John was a good person. He baptised many people and brought them closer to God.
He was dedicated to gods service from birth with life long promises never to shave, drink wine, or indulge in human pleasures. He lived in the wilderness wearing rugged clothes and living on locust and wild honey.
St John was a kind Noble man. He lived a good life. He tried to...