What is the meaning of Mark 6:20?

* The two F.O.G. Bibles & Commentary below are currently a work in progress.

because Herod feared John and protected him, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man. When he heard John’s words, he was greatly perplexed; yet he listened to him gladly.

Berean Standard Bible (BSB)

for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and kept him safe. When he heard him, he did many things, and he heard him gladly.

World English Bible (WEB)

For{G1063} Herod{G2264} feared{G5399}{(G5711)} John{G2491}, knowing{G1492}{(G5761)} that he{G846} was a just{G1342} man{G435} and{G2532} an holy{G40}, and{G2532} observed{G4933}{(G5707)} him{G846}; and{G2532} when he heard{G191}{(G5660)} him{G846}, he did{G4160}{(G5707)} many things{G4183}, and{G2532} heard{G191}{(G5707)} him{G846} gladly{G2234}.

Strong's King James

(20) Because Herod was afraid of Yochanan, knowing that he was a justified holy man and kept him safe. Whenever hearing him, he was greatly perplexed and yet would gladly hear him.

The F.O.G*

[20] For Herod, though disturbed by John's messages, recognized him as a holy and righteous man. This recognition provided John some protection, as Herod kept him safely in custody. Despite his inner turmoil when listening to John's preaching, something in Herod was drawn to hear more.

The F.O.G Paraphrase

for Herod was fearing John, knowing him a man righteous and holy, and was keeping watch over him, and having heard him, was doing many things, and hearing him gladly.

Young's Literal Translation