Matthew 26:4
And consulted that they might take Jesus by subtilty, and kill him.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 9
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
συνεβουλεύσαντο
consulted
G4823
συνεβουλεύσαντο
consulted
Strong's:
G4823
Word #:
2 of 9
to give (or take) advice jointly, i.e., recommend, deliberate or determine
τὸν
G3588
τὸν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 9
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Ἰησοῦν
Jesus
G2424
Ἰησοῦν
Jesus
Strong's:
G2424
Word #:
5 of 9
jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites
κρατήσωσιν
they might take
G2902
κρατήσωσιν
they might take
Strong's:
G2902
Word #:
6 of 9
to use strength, i.e., seize or retain (literally or figuratively)
Cross References
Matthew 12:14Then the Pharisees went out, and held a council against him, how they might destroy him.Acts 13:10And said, O full of all subtilty and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord?Psalms 2:2The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed, saying,
Historical Context
Under Roman occupation, the Sanhedrin lacked authority to execute (John 18:31), requiring them to manipulate Pilate into ordering crucifixion. Their plan required secrecy because Jesus had popular support—the crowds had proclaimed Him during the Triumphal Entry just days before.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the religious leaders' use of deception contrast with Jesus's open teaching in the temple courts?
- What does their conspiracy reveal about the human heart's capacity for self-justification when rejecting God's truth?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Consulted that they might take Jesus by subtilty—The Greek dolos (δόλος) means 'deceit' or 'treachery.' The religious leaders plot to arrest Jesus secretly, contradicting legal procedures requiring public charges. Their scheming fulfills Psalm 2:2: 'The rulers take counsel together against the LORD, and against his anointed.'
And kill him—The stark brutality of apokteino (ἀποκτείνω) reveals premeditated murder. They've moved beyond theological disagreement to conspiracy to commit capital crime. These guardians of 'Thou shalt not kill' (Exodus 20:13) plot judicial murder of the sinless One.