Bible Figure
Salome
biblical daughter of Herod II and Herodias (14–62)
Salome is the traditional name for the daughter of Herodias who danced at Herod Antipas' banquet and, prompted by her mother, requested the head of John the Baptist. The canonical Gospels do not give the daughter's personal name.
Biography
Matthew 14 and Mark 6 recount the banquet at which the daughter of Herodias danced before Herod Antipas and his guests. Pleased, Herod swore to give her what she requested. Prompted by Herodias, she asked for John the Baptist's head on a platter. Herod was distressed but, because of his oaths and guests, ordered the execution. John's head was brought to the girl, who gave it to her mother. The name Salome comes from historical tradition, particularly Josephus' account of Herodian family relationships, rather than from the Gospel text itself. AVWJ should therefore identify Salome as the traditional historical identification while making clear that Matthew and Mark leave her unnamed.
Biblical Significance
Salome's role belongs to the account of John the Baptist's martyrdom and illustrates how Herod's rash oath and Herodias' hostility culminated in the death of a prophet. Distinguishing her traditional name from the unnamed Gospel figure preserves historical usefulness without overstating the biblical text.