[Verse 1] John had told Herod plainly: "It is not lawful, what thou hast done." Herodias nursed the anger; The prison shut away the sun. Herod feared the righteous prophet, Heard him gladly, puzzled still; Truth remained a troubling witness No locked door could make be still. [Refrain] A voice silenced by a banquet, A promise spoken out of pride, A prophet's head became the payment When a ruler would not choose the right. A voice silenced by a banquet, But the truth did not grow small; The sword can end the breath of witness, Not the word that caused the fall. [Verse 2] On the birthday, lords were gathered; Herodias's daughter danced. Herod swore before his nobles, Giving pride a reckless chance. Prompted by her mother, she asked: "John the Baptist's head in a charger." The king was sorry, yet his image Weighed more than the life of the martyr. [Final Verse] The disciples took the body, Laid the faithful man away, Then brought the news to Jesus At the closing of the day. A voice was silenced in the prison, But repentance still was called; The kingdom did not bow to Herod, And the prophet had not crawled.