Matthew 27:15
Now at that feast the governor was wont to release unto the people a prisoner, whom they would.
Original Language Analysis
Κατὰ
at
G2596
Κατὰ
at
Strong's:
G2596
Word #:
1 of 13
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
εἰώθει
was wont
G1486
εἰώθει
was wont
Strong's:
G1486
Word #:
4 of 13
to be used (by habit or conventionality); neuter perfect participle usage
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἡγεμὼν
the governor
G2232
ἡγεμὼν
the governor
Strong's:
G2232
Word #:
6 of 13
a leader, i.e., chief person (or figuratively, place) of a province
ἀπολύειν
to release
G630
ἀπολύειν
to release
Strong's:
G630
Word #:
7 of 13
to free fully, i.e., (literally) relieve, release, dismiss (reflexively, depart), or (figuratively) let die, pardon or (specially) divorce
τῷ
G3588
τῷ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ὄχλῳ
unto the people
G3793
ὄχλῳ
unto the people
Strong's:
G3793
Word #:
10 of 13
a throng (as borne along); by implication, the rabble; by extension, a class of people; figuratively, a riot
Historical Context
Passover commemorated Israel's exodus from Egypt, when lamb's blood on doorposts spared the firstborn. During this feast, Jerusalem's population swelled with pilgrims. Roman governors typically resided in Caesarea but came to Jerusalem during festivals to maintain order.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the Passover timing of Jesus's crucifixion deepen the symbolism of Christ as 'our Passover' (1 Corinthians 5:7)?
- What does Pilate's political maneuvering reveal about the futility of trying to serve both God and man?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Now at that feast the governor was wont to release unto the people a prisoner (κατὰ δὲ ἑορτὴν εἰώθει ὁ ἡγεμὼν ἀπολύειν)—The Greek eiothen (was accustomed) describes an established custom, though no Roman legal code records this privilegium paschale (Passover privilege). Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John all mention it, suggesting a local Judean practice.
Pilate's offering this choice was political maneuvering—he sought to release Jesus while appeasing the crowd. But God's providence used even pagan political calculation to fulfill prophecy: the Passover Lamb must die so sinners could go free.