Matthew 27:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 27:6
6 And the chief priests took the silver pieces, and said, It is not lawful for to put them into the treasury, because it is the price of blood.
Chapter Context
Matthew 27 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of fellowship, discipleship, creation. 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 provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 27:6
6 And the chief priests took the silver pieces, and said, It is not lawful for to put them into the treasury, because it is the price of blood.
Analysis
It is not lawful for us to put them into the treasury, because it is the price of blood—The supreme irony: the chief priests who orchestrated an illegal trial and murder now display scrupulous concern for ritual purity. The Greek korbanas (κορβανᾶς, "temple treasury") could not receive timē haimatos (τιμὴ αἵματος, "blood money") according to Deuteronomy 23:18, which forbids bringing "the price of a dog" into God's house.
They strained at gnats while swallowing camels (Matthew 23:24). Their casuistry is breathtaking: blood money cannot defile the treasury, but the innocent blood they just shed doesn't defile their hands. This verse exposes how religious externalism becomes a shield for moral atrocity—they kept the letter of ceremonial law while murdering the Lord of glory. The thirty pieces Judas returned became evidence against them, money too unholy even for priests who trafficked in judicial murder.
Historical Context
The temple treasury (κορβανᾶς) received tithes, offerings, and vows for sacred use. Deuteronomy 23:18 forbade money from prostitution or "shameful gain" entering it. The priests' logic: since Judas' betrayal led to bloodshed, the silver was now ceremonially defiled—while ignoring their own guilt in that same bloodshed. This scene occurred during Passover preparation (27:62), when ritual purity was paramount.
Reflection
- What modern forms of religious scrupulosity might mask deeper moral compromise in your own life?
- How does this scene fulfill Zechariah 11:12-13, where the shepherd is valued at thirty pieces of silver cast into the potter's house in the temple?
Word Studies
- Blood: αἷμα (Haima) G129 - Blood
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Deuteronomy 23:18