20 because Herod stood in awe of John and protected him, since he knew that John was a righteous and holy man. When Herod heard him, he was thoroughly baffled, and yet he liked to listen to John.
20 for Herod feared John knowing that he was a just and holy man, and kept him safeD7008; and having heard him, did many things, and heard him gladly.
safe - Or 'observed him diligently.' The word has the force of 'watching closely, and keeping in mind,' whether to pay attention to, or to preserve. Which of these applications is the just one is the question. It is used four times (three besides this); twice for 'preserved,' as the wine and the bottles, Matt. 9.17; Luke 5.38; once for Mary's 'keeping' things in her heart, Luke 2.19. I should have preferred 'observed him diligently,' but that I do not find it used of a person, meaning 'paying attention to what he says.' It is used of words and opinions, but then it has still the force of 'keeping them safe.'
20 For Herod feared John, knowing that he was a just man and an holy, and observed himK6611; and when he heard him, he did many things, and heard him gladly.
observed him: Or, kept him or saved him.
Related Content
Additional Resources
Main Site Content
Keywords