Mark 6:21

Convenient [ε υ κ α ι ρ ο ν]. Mark only. Convenient for Herodias' purpose. "Opportune for the insidious woman, who hoped, through wine, lust, and the concurrence of sycophants, to be able easily to overcome the wavering mind of her husband" (Grotius in Meyer).

Birthday. See on Matthew 14:6. The notice of the banquet and of the rank of the guests is peculiar to Mark.

Lords (megistasin). Only here, and Revelation 6:15; Revelation 18:3. A late word, from megav, great.

High captains [χ ι λ ι α ρ χ ο ι ς]. Lit., commanders of a thousand men. Answering to a Roman military tribune. Both civil and military dignitaries were present, with other distinguished men of the district (chief men).