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◄ Mark 6:26►

New International Version
The king was greatly distressed, but because of his oaths and his dinner guests, he did not want to refuse her.

New Living Translation
Then the king deeply regretted what he had said; but because of the vows he had made in front of his guests, he couldn’t refuse her.

English Standard Version
And the king was exceedingly sorry, but because of his oaths and his guests he did not want to break his word to her.

Berean Standard Bible
The king was consumed with sorrow, but because of his oaths and his guests, he did not want to refuse her.

Berean Literal Bible
And the king, having been made very sorrowful, on account of the oaths and those reclining withhim, did not want to refuse her.

King James Bible
And the king was exceeding sorry;yet for his oath's sake, and for their sakes which sat with him, he would not reject her.

New King James Version
And the king was exceedingly sorry;yet, because of the oaths and because of those who sat with him, he did not want to refuse her.

New American Standard Bible
And although the king was very sorry, because of his oaths and his dinner guests, he was unwilling to refuse her.

NASB 1995
And although the king was very sorry, yet because of his oaths and because of his dinner guests, he was unwilling to refuse her.

NASB 1977
And although the king was very sorry,yet because of his oaths and because of his dinner guests, he was unwilling to refuse her.

Legacy Standard Bible
And although the king was very sorry,yet because of his oaths and because of his dinner guests, he did not want to refuse her.

Amplified Bible
The king was deeply grieved, but because of his oaths and his dinner guests [who might have regarded him as weak], he was unwilling to [break his word and] refuse her.

Christian Standard Bible
Although the king was deeply distressed, because of his oaths and the guests he did not want to refuse her.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
Though the king was deeply distressed, because of his oaths and the guests he did not want to refuse her.

American Standard Version
And the king was exceeding sorry; but for the sake of his oaths, and of them that sat at meat, he would not reject her.

Contemporary English Version
Herod was very sorry for what he had said. But he did not want to break the promise he had made in front of his guests.

English Revised Version
And the king was exceeding sorry; but for the sake of his oaths, and of them that sat at meat, he would not reject her.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
The king deeply regretted his promise. But because of his oath and his guests, he didn't want to refuse her.

Good News Translation
This made the king very sad, but he could not refuse her because of the vows he had made in front of all his guests.

International Standard Version
The king was deeply saddened, yet because of his oaths and his guests he was reluctant to refuse her.

NET Bible
Although it grieved the king deeply, he did not want to reject her request because of his oath and his guests.

New Heart English Bible
And the king was exceedingly sorry, but for the sake of his oaths, and those reclining, he did not wish to refuse her.

Webster's Bible Translation
And the king was exceeding sorry: yet for his oath's sake, and for their sakes who sat with him, he would not reject her.

Weymouth New Testament
Then the King, though intensely sorry, yet for the sake of his oaths, and of his guests, would not break faith with her.

Majority Text Translations

Majority Standard Bible
The king was consumed with sorrow, but because of his oaths and his guests, he did not want to refuse her.

World English Bible
The king was exceedingly sorry, but for the sake of his oaths and of his dinner guests, he didn’t wish to refuse her.

Literal Translations

Literal Standard Version
And the king, made very sorrowful because of the oaths and of those reclining with him, would not put her away,

Berean Literal Bible
And the king, having been made very sorrowful, on account of the oaths and those reclining withhim, did not want to refuse her.

Young's Literal Translation
And the king -- made very sorrowful -- because of the oaths and of those reclining (at meat) with him, would not put her away,

Smith's Literal Translation
And the king having been sorely grieved on account of the oaths and those reclining at table together, wished not to refuse her.

Catholic Translations

Douay-Rheims Bible
And the king was struck sad. Yet because of his oath, and because of them that were with him at table, he would not displease her:

Catholic Public Domain Version
And the king was greatly saddened. But because of his oath, and because of those who were sitting with him at table, he was not willing to disappoint her.

New American Bible
The king was deeply distressed, but because of his oaths and the guests he did not wish to break his word to her.

New Revised Standard Version
The king was deeply grieved; yet out of regard for his oaths and for the guests, he did not want to refuse her.

Translations from Aramaic

Lamsa Bible
And the king was exceedingly sorry; but because of the oaths, and because of the guests, he did not wish to refuse her.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
And it grieved The King much, but because of the oath and because of the dinner guests, he was unwilling to deny her.

NT Translations

Anderson New Testament
And the king was very sad; yet, on account of his oath and his guests, he would not reject her.

Godbey New Testament
And the king being grieved exceedingly; on account of his oaths, and those sitting with him, was not willing to reject her.

Haweis New Testament
And the king was exceedingly sorry; yet on account of his oath, and those who sat with him, he would not refuse her.

Mace New Testament
at this the king was exceedingly concern'd; however, in regard to his oath, and to those who were at table with him, he would not refuse her;

Weymouth New Testament
Then the King, though intensely sorry, yet for the sake of his oaths, and of his guests, would not break faith with her.

Worrell New Testament
And, though becoming very sorrowful, the king, because of his oaths, and those recliningwith him, would not thwart her.

Worsley New Testament
And the king was exceedingly grieved,but on account of his oath, and those who were at table withhim, he would not refuse her: but immediately sent one of his guard,

Additional Translations ...

Audio Bible

Context

The Beheading of John
…25At once the girl hurried back to the king with her request: “I want you to give me the head of John the Baptist on a platter immediately.”26 The king was consumed with sorrow,but because of his oaths and his guests,he did not want to refuse her.27So without delay, the king commanded that John’s head be brought in. He sent an executioner, who went and beheaded him in the prison.…

Berean Standard Bible ·Download

Cross References

Matthew 14:9
The king was grieved, but because of his oaths and his guests, he ordered that her wish be granted

Judges 11:30-31
Jephthah made this vow to the LORD: “If indeed You will deliver the Ammonites into my hand, / then whatever comes out the door of my house to greet me on my triumphant return from the Ammonites will belong to the LORD, and I will offer it up as a burnt offering.”

Judges 11:35
As soon as Jephthah saw her, he tore his clothes and said, “No! Not my daughter! You have brought me to my knees! You have brought great misery upon me, for I have given my word to the LORD and cannot take it back.”

1 Samuel 14:24
Now the men of Israel were in distress that day, for Saul had placed the troops under an oath, saying, “Cursed is the man who eats any food before evening, before I have taken vengeance on my enemies.” So none of the troops tasted any food.

1 Samuel 14:39
As surely as the LORD who saves Israel lives, even if it is my son Jonathan, he must die!” But not one of the troops said a word.

1 Samuel 25:22
May God punish David, and ever so severely, if I let one male belonging to Nabal survive until morning.”

2 Samuel 3:35
Then all the people came and urged David to eat something while it was still day, but David took an oath, saying, “May God punish me, and ever so severely, if I taste bread or anything else before the sun sets!”

2 Samuel 19:23
So the king said to Shimei, “You shall not die.” And the king swore an oath to him.

2 Kings 6:31
He announced, “May God punish me, and ever so severely, if the head of Elisha son of Shaphat remains on his shoulders through this day!”

Esther 1:19
So if it pleases the king, let him issue a royal decree, and let it be recorded in the laws of Persia and Media so that it cannot be repealed, that Vashti shall never again enter the presence of King Xerxes, and that her royal position shall be given to a woman better than she.

Esther 7:8
Just as the king returned from the palace garden to the banquet hall, Haman was falling on the couch where Esther was reclining. The king exclaimed, “Would he actually assault the queen while I am in the palace?” As soon as the words had left the king’s mouth, they covered Haman’s face.

Daniel 6:14-15
As soon as the king heard this, he was deeply distressed and set his mind on delivering Daniel, and he labored until sundown to rescue him. / Then the men approached the king together and said to him, “Remember, O king, that by the law of the Medes and Persians no decree or ordinance established by the king can be changed.”

Matthew 5:33-37
Again, you have heard that it was said to the ancients, ‘Do not break your oath, but fulfill your vows to the Lord.’ / But I tell you not to swear at all: either by heaven, for it is God’s throne; / or by the earth, for it is His footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. ...

Matthew 23:16-22
Woe to you, blind guides! You say, ‘If anyone swears by the temple, it means nothing; but if anyone swears by the gold of the temple, he is bound by his oath.’ / You blind fools! Which is greater: the gold, or the temple that makes it sacred? / And you say, ‘If anyone swears by the altar, it means nothing; but if anyone swears by the gift on it, he is bound by his oath.’ ...

Acts 23:12-14
When daylight came, the Jews formed a conspiracy and bound themselves with an oath not to eat or drink until they had killed Paul. / More than forty of them were involved in this plot. / They went to the chief priests and elders and said, “We have bound ourselves with a solemn oath not to eat anything until we have killed Paul.

Treasury of Scripture

And the king was exceeding sorry; yet for his oath's sake, and for their sakes which sat with him, he would not reject her.

Matthew 14:9
And the king was sorry: nevertheless for the oath's sake, and them which sat with him at meat, he commandedit to be givenher.

Matthew 27:3-5,24,25
Then Judas, which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself, and brought again the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, …

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Mark 6

1.Jesus is a prophet without honor in his own country.
7.He gives the twelve power over unclean spirits.
14.Various opinions of Jesus.
16.John the Baptist is imprisoned, beheaded, and buried.
30.The apostles return from preaching.
34.The miracle of five loaves and two fishes.
45.Jesus walks on the sea;
53.and heals all who touch him.

Study Bible

Book ◦ Chapter

The king was consumed with sorrow
This phrase refers to King Herod Antipas, the tetrarch of Galilee and Perea. Herod's sorrow indicates a deep internal conflict, as he was troubled by the request made by Herodias's daughter. This sorrow highlights Herod's awareness of the moral implications of his actions, as he respected John the Baptist and recognized him as a righteous and holy man (Mark 6:20). The sorrow also reflects the tension between Herod's personal convictions and the political and social pressures he faced.

but because of his oaths
Herod had made a rash promise to Herodias's daughter after she pleased him with her dance, offering her anything she wished, up to half his kingdom (Mark 6:23). In the cultural context of the time, oaths were considered binding and sacred, and breaking them could lead to a loss of honor and credibility. Herod's adherence to his oath, despite his sorrow, underscores the weight that such promises held in ancient Jewish and Greco-Roman societies.

and his guests
The presence of guests at Herod's banquet added to the pressure he felt to fulfill his oath. In the ancient Near Eastern culture, maintaining one's honor and reputation in front of others was paramount. The guests likely included high-ranking officials and influential figures, making Herod's decision a public matter. This social dynamic illustrates the theme of peer pressure and the fear of losing face, which can lead individuals to act against their better judgment.

he did not want to refuse her
Herod's reluctance to refuse Herodias's daughter demonstrates his internal struggle between doing what he knew was right and maintaining his public image. This phrase highlights the moral weakness and lack of true authority in Herod's character, as he prioritizes his reputation over justice. The decision to grant her request ultimately leads to the beheading of John the Baptist, a pivotal moment that foreshadows the rejection and suffering of Jesus Christ. This event also serves as a reminder of the cost of discipleship and the potential consequences of standing for truth in a world that often values power and prestige over righteousness.

Persons / Places / Events

1.Herod Antipas
The tetrarch of Galilee and Perea, known for his role in the execution of John the Baptist. He is depicted as a ruler who is easily swayed by public opinion and personal pride.

2.Herodias
The wife of Herod Antipas, formerly married to his brother Philip. Herodias harbored a grudge against John the Baptist for condemning her marriage to Herod as unlawful.

3.Salome
The daughter of Herodias, who danced for Herod and his guests, leading to Herod's rash promise and John's execution.

4.John the Baptist
A prophet and forerunner of Jesus, known for his call to repentance and his boldness in speaking against sin, including Herod's unlawful marriage.

5.The Banquet
A lavish event hosted by Herod, attended by high-ranking officials and guests, setting the stage for the fateful promise and subsequent execution of John the Baptist.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Rash Promises
Herod's regret highlights the consequences of making hasty vows. Believers should be cautious with their words and commitments, ensuring they align with God's will.

The Influence of Peer Pressure
Herod's decision was swayed by the presence of his guests. Christians must be vigilant against compromising their values due to societal or peer pressure.

The Cost of Pride
Herod's pride prevented him from retracting his promise. Pride can lead to destructive decisions; humility before God is essential.

The Consequences of Sin
Herod's actions demonstrate how sin can escalate and lead to greater wrongdoing. Believers are called to repentance and to seek God's guidance in overcoming sin.

Standing for Righteousness
John the Baptist's boldness in speaking truth to power serves as an example for Christians to stand firm in their convictions, even in the face of opposition.

Bible Study Questions and Answers

1.What is the meaning of Mark 6:26?

2.How does Mark 6:26 illustrate the consequences of rash promises or oaths?

3.What can we learn about integrity from Herod's reaction in Mark 6:26?

4.How does Mark 6:26 connect to Proverbs 20:25 on making vows?

5.In what ways can we avoid Herod's mistake in our daily decisions?

6.How should Christians respond when faced with conflicting promises and moral obligations?

7.Why did Herod feel compelled to honor his oath despite its moral implications in Mark 6:26?

8.How does Mark 6:26 challenge the concept of absolute authority and power?

9.What does Herod's decision in Mark 6:26 reveal about human weakness and accountability?

10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Mark 6?

11.What led to John the Baptist's beheading?

12.What is Jericho's significance in the Bible?

13.Does the deliverance from death proclaimed in Psalm 56:13 contradict other biblical accounts of faithful figures who died tragically?

14.In Mark 6:14–29, how does the account of John the Baptist’s beheading align with or contradict known historical records?

What Does Mark 6:26 Mean

The king

Herod Antipas stands at center stage. Scripture records him as a tetrarch with political power yet spiritual weakness (Mark 6:14–20).

• Herod “feared John and protected him” (Mark 6:20), revealing a conflicted conscience.

• Parallel passage: “But when Herod’s birthday came…” (Matthew 14:6). The historical setting is real, reinforcing the literal trustworthiness of the narrative.

• Like Pharaoh before Moses (Exodus 8:28–32), Herod is a ruler whose heart wavers between conviction and compromise.

was consumed with sorrow

Herod’s grief is genuine, not theatrical. Mark’s wording paints deep emotional anguish.

•Matthew 14:9 echoes, “The king was grieved.”

• Worldly sorrow, however, differs from godly sorrow that leads to repentance (2 Corinthians 7:10). Herod’s sadness never turns him toward God.

• Remember Esau, who “found no room for repentance, though he sought it with tears” (Hebrews 12:17). Emotion alone cannot save.

but because of his oaths

Herod had rashly promised “up to half my kingdom” (Mark 6:23). A careless vow cornered him.

•Ecclesiastes 5:4-6 warns not to delay in fulfilling vows nor to speak thoughtlessly before God.

• Jephthah’s tragic pledge (Judges 11:30-40) stands as another cautionary tale: a ruler binds himself by words spoken in haste.

• Jesus later instructs, “Do not swear at all… let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes’” (Matthew 5:34-37). Honest integrity prevents foolish oaths.

and his guests

Social pressure tightens the trap. The banquet hall brims with nobles, commanders, and Galilean dignitaries (Mark 6:21).

•Proverbs 29:25—“The fear of man lays a snare.”

• Pilate would likewise cave to the crowd (Mark 15:15), proving that public opinion often overrides personal conviction in weak leaders.

• God’s servants must obey Him rather than men (Acts 5:29), even when peers are watching.

he did not want to refuse her.

Herod exchanges John’s life for his own reputation. Pride wins over righteousness.

• “A man who hardens his neck after much reproof will suddenly be broken” (Proverbs 29:1).

• Contrast with Daniel, who refused the king’s delicacies and stood firm (Daniel 1:8).

• The tragic result: John’s beheading (Mark 6:27-28), yet God still advances His kingdom; no human compromise thwarts His purpose (Acts 12:24).

summary

Mark 6:26 exposes a ruler torn between conviction and cowardice. Herod’s sorrow is real, but his greater fear of losing face before men drives him to honor a reckless oath rather than honor God. The verse warns believers to guard their words, resist peer pressure, and submit to God above all, trusting that true integrity is worth any cost.

Pulpit Commentary

Verse 26. -And the king was exceeding sorry. We cannot suppose that this was a pretended grief. The true reason is doubtless to be found in the relentless animosity of Herodias. Herod must have known well that he could not be bound by his oath in reference to a petition so unreasonable and so iniquitous. Nevertheless he thought that "the words of a king were law." St. Augustine says, "The girl dances; the mother rages. A rash oath is made amidst the excitement and the voluptuous indulgence of the feast; and the savage desires of Herodias are fulfilled."For the sake of his oaths (διὰ τοὺς ὅρκους); the plural shows that he repeated the rash promise once and again.

Parallel Commentaries ...

Greek

The
ὁ(ho)
Article - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3588:The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

king
βασιλεὺς(basileus)
Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 935:A king, ruler, but in some passages clearly to be translated: emperor. Probably from basis; a sovereign.

was
γενόμενος(genomenos)
Verb - Aorist Participle Middle - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 1096:A prolongation and middle voice form of a primary verb; to cause to be, i.e. to become, used with great latitude.

overwhelmed with sorrow,
περίλυπος(perilypos)
Adjective - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 4036:Very sorrowful, greatly grieved. From peri and lupe; grieved all around, i.e. Intensely sad.

but because of
διὰ(dia)
Preposition
Strong's 1223:A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through.

[his]
τοὺς(tous)
Article - Accusative Masculine Plural
Strong's 3588:The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

oaths
ὅρκους(horkous)
Noun - Accusative Masculine Plural
Strong's 3727:An oath. From herkos; a limit, i.e. restraint.

and
καὶ(kai)
Conjunction
Strong's 2532:And, even, also, namely.

his guests,
ἀνακειμένους(anakeimenous)
Verb - Present Participle Middle or Passive - Accusative Masculine Plural
Strong's 345:To recline, especially at a dinner-table. From ana and keimai; to recline.

he did not want
ἠθέλησεν(ēthelēsen)
Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 2309:To will, wish, desire, be willing, intend, design.

to refuse
ἀθετῆσαι(athetēsai)
Verb - Aorist Infinitive Active
Strong's 114:From a compound of a and a derivative of tithemi; to set aside, i.e. to disesteem, neutralize or violate.

her.
αὐτήν(autēn)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative Feminine 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 846:He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.

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NT Gospels: Mark 6:26 The king was exceedingly sorry (Mar Mk Mr)