Who had John the Baptist put in prison?

John the Baptist was put in prison by Herod Antipas, which we see unfolding in Mark 6:17 and elsewhere in the Gospels. Herod Antipas, the son of Herod the Great, represents more than just a political figure; he was a symbol of the tumultuous relationship between the ruling powers and prophetic voices of the time. John’s outspoken condemnation of Herod’s private life—specifically, his marriage to Herodias, his brother's wife— propelled John into danger. This incident poses ethical questions that echo over centuries: how do the powerful react to dissenters, especially when they call out injustice?

Interestingly, John's boldness doesn't merely result in his imprisonment but carries significant weight in Jesus' ministry later on. Many may not know that in ancient times, prophetic figures like John were viewed with both reverence and wariness; they often tread the line between social commentary and risk. This was a perilous path, emphasizing how speaking truth to power can have serious consequences.

Additional trivia: John's prophetic role is reminiscent of other Old Testament figures, like Elijah, who challenged the monarchy of Israel, albeit in different ages and contexts. Such parallels reflect an ongoing conversation about the mouthpieces of godly truths, sketching a rich tapestry of religious history comprised of unyielding spirit and tremendous sacrifice.