Matthew 27:15

Authorized King James Version

Now at that feast the governor was wont to release unto the people a prisoner, whom they would.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Κατὰ
at
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
#2
δὲ
Now
but, and, etc
#3
ἑορτὴν
that feast
a festival
#4
εἰώθει
was wont
to be used (by habit or conventionality); neuter perfect participle usage
#5
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
ἡγεμὼν
the governor
a leader, i.e., chief person (or figuratively, place) of a province
#7
ἀπολύειν
to release
to free fully, i.e., (literally) relieve, release, dismiss (reflexively, depart), or (figuratively) let die, pardon or (specially) divorce
#8
ἕνα
a
one
#9
τῷ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#10
ὄχλῳ
unto the people
a throng (as borne along); by implication, the rabble; by extension, a class of people; figuratively, a riot
#11
δέσμιον
prisoner
a captive (as bound)
#12
ὃν
whom
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#13
ἤθελον
they would
to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas g1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations),

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Matthew. The concept of covenant community reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to gospel presenting Jesus as the fulfillment of Jewish Messianic hope, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within Roman imperial rule over Jewish Palestine with messianic expectations. The author writes to address Jewish Christians seeking to understand Jesus as Messiah, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics

People

Study Resources