Matthew 14:7

New Testament Gospel ASV (1901)

What does Matthew 14:7 say?

The American Standard Version records this verse as: “Whereupon he promised with an oath to give her whatsoever she should ask.” Read the surrounding verses and the named sources below before drawing broader conclusions.

The verse

Whereupon he promised with an oath to give her whatsoever she should ask.
Matthew 14:7 — American Standard Version

Context — Matthew 14

American Standard Version (1901) — public domain. Click any verse for its study page.
7Whereupon he promised with an oath to give her whatsoever she should ask.

What do historical commentaries say?

John Gill's Exposition
John Gill (1697–1771) · Exposition of the Old and New Testament · 18th-century historical commentary
“Whereupon he promised with an oath, etc.] On account of her fine dancing, and being extremely pleased with it himself; and the more, that it gave such pleasure to the whole court: he first promised her, to give her whatsoever she would ask; and then repeating it, he confirmed it with an oath; adding, as Mark says, that he would give it her, even “to the half of his kingdom”: a way of speaking used by princes, when they give full power to persons to ask what they will of them; and to express their great munificence and liberality; signifying, let it be ever so great, or cost what it will, though as much as half a kingdom comes to, it shall be granted; (see <170503>Esther 5:3,6). A very…”
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Barnes' Notes
Albert Barnes (1798–1870) · Notes on the Whole Bible · 19th-century historical commentary
“See also Mark 6:21-29. But when Herod’s birthday was come Kings were accustomed to observe the day of their birth with much pomp, and commonly, also, by giving a feast to their principal nobility. See Genesis 40:20. Mark adds that this birthday was kept by making a supper to his “lords, high captains, and chief estates in Galilee;” that is to the chief men in office. “High captains” means, in the original, commanders of thousands, or of a division of 1,000 people. The daughter of Herodias - That is, “Salome,” her daughter by her former husband. This was a violation of all the rules of modesty and propriety. One great principle of all eastern nations is to keep their females from public view.…”
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Tyndale Open Study Notes
Tyndale House Publishers · Tyndale Open Study Notes · Modern study notes
“14:7 Such an extravagant, foolish oath was consistent with Herod Antipas’s character.”
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Treasury of Scriptural Knowledge
R. A. Torrey and contributors · The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge · Cross-reference reference work
“Est 5:3, Est 5:6, Est 7:2 Matthew 14:8”
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Related study paths

Sources and verification