Matthew 27:34
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 27:34
34 They gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall: and when he had tasted thereof, he would not drink.
Chapter Context
Matthew 27 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of mercy, sacrifice, hope. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-66: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 27:34
34 They gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall: and when he had tasted thereof, he would not drink.
Analysis
Vinegar to drink mingled with gall (ὄξος μετὰ χολῆς, oxos meta cholēs)—Mark 15:23 specifies wine mingled with myrrh, a narcotic painkiller offered by charitable Jewish women to condemned men. Gall (χολή) may translate the myrrh, or Matthew may allude to Psalm 69:21: They gave me also gall for my meat; and in my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink.
He would not drink—Jesus refuses to dull his senses. He will taste death fully, experiencing unmediated wrath for sin. The cup he prayed might pass (Matthew 26:39) he now drinks to the dregs, refusing even lawful relief.
Historical Context
Roman crucifixion was designed to maximize suffering through asphyxiation, exposure, and pain. Charitable Jews sometimes offered drugged wine to condemned criminals as a mercy. Jesus's refusal shows his determination to bear sin's full penalty consciously.
Reflection
- Why was it necessary for Jesus to refuse pain relief and experience suffering fully?
- How does this refusal relate to the cup Jesus prayed about in Gethsemane (Matthew 26:39, 42)?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Matthew 27:48, Psalms 69:21, Mark 15:23