Women of the Bible 5: Who Am I?

Who is this woman from the Bible? Please comment your answer.

I twirled, and as I twirled, they laughed. My garments shimmered in the torchlight. I placed my veil across my face and got close to some of them, flirting. Then, I moved back several steps and began to dance again. I made sure they followed my movements. Mesmerized, they didn’t even talk but watched—and lusted.

Even my mother’s husband couldn’t take his eyes off of me. Neither did I want him to. I would demand a payment–a bauble or garment perhaps. He would pay for the entertainment I gave his guests.

When the music slowed, so did I. My veil floated in a circle around me, and I made my way around the room, showing my shoulders and my silhouette to every man. They were drunk with wine and with the sight of me—a beautiful young woman, dancing.

I got my beauty from my mother. Even though she is somewhat over thirty, she is still stunning. That’s why every king wants her.

The last man I danced for was the king, who’s my stepfather and uncle. He was smiling as he beckoned me close to him. A cloud of liquor breath hung around him. He grabbed my arm and said with a loud voice so that everyone in the room could hear, “You please me. What do you desire? You may ask whatever you want, and I will give it to you.”

I answered, “Give me a few minutes, please.”

He nodded assent, and I minced out of the room, being careful to seduce as I moved. I hurried to my mother and asked her what I should ask for. I had no idea what she would say, or I never would have asked. She said, “Ask for John’s head on a platter.”

So, I did.

A few minutes later, I got what I asked for.

And, I will never be the same.