And with an oath he promised to give the girl whatever she asked.
This verse describes Herod’s foolish and careless behavior, stirred by an emotional moment and reckless pride. Delighted by the dance of Herodias’s daughter and likely influenced by wine and the splendor of the occasion, he swears that he will give her whatever she asks. It is a situation seasoned with power and pride, where words come out before thought. Herod promises the girl whatever she wants without conditions, without understanding or checking what might be demanded. Such oaths reveal a state of soul in which emotion and pleasure drown out prudence. And because the word is given in everyone’s presence, afterward he finds himself trapped, for he has sworn as a ruler, and it becomes a matter of honor to carry out his word. This verse warns us how dangerous careless promises are, especially when they are made on the ground of pride or emotion. When a person is not guided by the fear of God, by his words he can bring ruin not only on himself, but also on others.