Devine Scripture

Matthew 27:14

What does Matthew 27:14 mean?

A plain-English look at Matthew 27:14 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Matthew 27:14 means

Jesus remains silent even in the face of so many accusations, leaving Pilate amazed. The governor is astonished that Jesus offers no reply ‘not even to one word.’ This marveling underscores Jesus’ composure and the unusual nature of his conduct compared to ordinary defendants who would plead for themselves. Jesus’ silence functions as a theological sign: he is fulfilling prophecy, refusing to contest false charges, and submitting to death as part of God’s plan rather than clinging to self-preservation.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And he gave him no answer, not even to one word: insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

And he answered him to never a word; insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And he gave him no answer, not even to one word: insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And he gave him no answer, not even a word: so that the ruler was greatly surprised.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

And he did not answer him, not even to one word, so that the governor did wonder greatly.

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

And he answered him to never a word, so that the governor wondered exceedingly.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And he answered him not so much as one word, so that the governor wondered exceedingly.

Context

This verse follows Pilate’s question about the charges (v. 13). It shows Pilate’s emotional response to Jesus’ silence and highlights the trial’s atypical character. The governor’s amazement contrasts with the frenzied accusations of the religious leaders and prepares the narrative for Pilate’s attempts to release Jesus later in the chapter.

v.13Then saith Pilate unto him, Hearest thou not how many things they witness against thee?

v.14This passage

v.15Now at the feast the governor was wont to release unto the multitude one prisoner, whom they would.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Isaiah 8:18

    Behold, I and the children whom Jehovah hath given me are for signs and for wonders in Israel from Jehovah of hosts, who dwelleth in mount Zion.

  • Psalms 71:7

    I am as a wonder unto many; But thou art my strong refuge.

  • Zechariah 3:8

    Hear now, O Joshua the high priest, thou and thy fellows that sit before thee; for they are men that are a sign: for, behold, I will bring forth my servant the Branch.

  • 1 Corinthians 4:9

    For, I think, God hath set forth us the apostles last of all, as men doomed to death: for we are made a spectacle unto the world, both to angels and men.

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