Matthew 27:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 27:5
5 And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and departed, and went and hanged himself.
Chapter Context
Matthew 27 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, discipleship, faith. 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 establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. 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 27:5
5 And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and departed, and went and hanged himself.
Analysis
And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple (ἔρριψεν τὰ ἀργύρια)—Judas hurled (ἔρριψεν, erripsen, violent throwing) the thirty pieces of silver into the sanctuary (naos, the inner temple building, not merely the temple courts). This desperate act reveals the unbearable torment of a guilty conscience confronting the irreversibility of betrayal.
And went and hanged himself (ἀπήγξατο, apēnxato)—The middle voice suggests self-inflicted death. This is the only NT use of this verb for hanging. Acts 1:18 adds that he fell headlong and burst open—likely the rope broke after decomposition. Judas's suicide contrasts starkly with Peter's tears of repentance (Matthew 26:75). Both betrayed Christ, but Judas turned to self-destruction while Peter turned to restoration. His end fulfills Psalm 109:8 ('let another take his office') and echoes Ahithophel's suicide after betraying David (2 Samuel 17:23), the typological precursor to Christ.
Historical Context
Suicide was rare in Jewish culture and considered a grave sin, forbidden by the sixth commandment. Judas's act occurred during Passover week (c. AD 30-33), when Jerusalem was filled with pilgrims. His return to the temple—specifically the sanctuary where only priests could enter—shows his desperate attempt to undo his crime. The chief priests' refusal to take back the money (v. 6) left him without human recourse.
Reflection
- What distinguishes godly sorrow that leads to repentance (2 Corinthians 7:10) from worldly sorrow that leads to death, as seen in Judas?
- How does Judas's tragic end illuminate the permanent consequences of betraying Christ, even when remorse follows?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: 2 Samuel 17:23