Devine Scripture

Matthew 27:16

What does Matthew 27:16 mean?

A plain-English look at Matthew 27:16 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Matthew 27:16 means

A notorious prisoner named Barabbas is introduced. Described as a ‘notable prisoner,’ Barabbas represents the type of criminal who might be set free under the custom. His presence heightens the contrast between Jesus—innocent and silent—and Barabbas—a known offender who would be favored by a manipulated crowd. This sets up the grim irony that the innocent Messiah will be exchanged for a guilty man, emphasizing the depth of Israel’s rejection and the substitutionary element in the passion.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And they had then a notable prisoner, called Barabbas.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

And they had then a notable prisoner, called Barabbas.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And they had then a notable prisoner, called Barabbas.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And they had then an important prisoner, whose name was Barabbas.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

and they had then a noted prisoner, called Barabbas,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

And he had then a notorious prisoner that was called Barabbas.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And they had then a notable prisoner, named Barabbas.

Context

This verse follows the explanation of the custom (v. 15) and provides the alternative in Pilate’s intended release. Naming Barabbas prepares the narrative choice and highlights the moral inversion that will soon occur when the crowd asks for Barabbas instead of Jesus, revealing the leaders’ and people’s priorities.

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

v.16This passage

v.17When therefore they were gathered together, Pilate said unto them, Whom will ye that I release unto you? Barabbas, or Jesus who is called Christ?

Cross references

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

  • Luke 23:18

    But they cried out all together, saying, Away with this man, and release unto us Barabbas:—

  • John 18:40

    They cried out therefore again, saying, Not this man, but Barabbas. Now Barabbas was a robber.

  • Acts 3:14

    But ye denied the Holy and Righteous One, and asked for a murderer to be granted unto you,

  • Luke 23:25

    And he released him that for insurrection and murder had been cast into prison, whom they asked for; but Jesus he delivered up to their will.

  • Mark 15:7

    And there was one called Barabbas, lying bound with them that had made insurrection, men who in the insurrection had committed murder.

  • Romans 1:32

    who, knowing the ordinance of God, that they that practise such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but also consent with them that practise them.

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