Matthew 27:4

Authorized King James Version

Saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood. And they said, What is that to us? see thou to that.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
λέγων,
Saying
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
#2
Ἥμαρτον
I have sinned
properly, to miss the mark (and so not share in the prize), i.e., (figuratively) to err, especially (morally) to sin
#3
παραδοὺς
in that I have betrayed
to surrender, i.e yield up, entrust, transmit
#4
αἷμα
blood
blood, literally (of men or animals), figuratively (the juice of grapes) or specially (the atoning blood of christ); by implication, bloodshed, also k
#5
ἀθῷον
the innocent
not guilty
#6
οἱ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
δὲ
And
but, and, etc
#8
εἶπον,
they said
to speak or say (by word or writing)
#9
Τί
What
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
#10
πρὸς
is that to
a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,
#11
ἡμᾶς
us
us
#12
σὺ
thou
thou
#13
ὄψει
see
to gaze (i.e., with wide-open eyes, as at something remarkable; and thus differing from g0991, which denotes simply voluntary observation; and from g1

Analysis

Within the broader context of Matthew, this passage highlights salvation through rhetorical questioning that engages the reader. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Matthew.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of Jewish biographical literature presenting Jesus as the fulfillment of Scripture shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Matthew Understanding a worldview expecting divine intervention through a promised Messiah helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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