Gleanings from Orthodox Christian Authors and the Holy Fathers

beheading_of_john_the_baptist

2 Entries

The birthday feast of Herod appeared wicked to everyone, Since, in the midst of the banqueters, the head of the Faster` Was brought in as a dish of food. Grief was mixed with joy, and bitter wailing was joined with laughter When the platter bearing the head of the Baptist Came into the sight of all, as the child had asked. And because of their wantonness, lamentation fell on all Of those dining at that time with the king; For this gave no pleasure to them nor to Herod himself; For it is written that he was sorry, but not with genuine grief But a false and temporary one. The Beheading of John the Baptist, from The Kontakia of Romanos, Vol. II

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The thrice-accursed day of his wretched birth was coming to a close for the lawless one, a day that Job himself cursed as he spoke, Just as Zaccharias mentioned: "That day will be darkness and not light." And if this was said about the day Because the light for those in darkness was on the cross, Still it was appropriate for Herod's day, Since on that day a friend of the light was slain. Indeed, he who slew him is not; but he who was slain is, And after death he speaks and draws all men to life, Which is everlasting and not temporary. Kontakia of Romanos: On the Beheading of John the Baptist

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