Matthew 27:58
What does Matthew 27:58 mean?
A plain-English look at Matthew 27:58 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Matthew 27:58 means
Joseph goes to Pilate, asks for the body, and Pilate commands that it be given to him. Pilate’s allowance shows an administrative formality that permits Joseph to bury Jesus. This transfer demonstrates that even Roman authority cooperates to provide a humane burial for the executed. The acquiescence also allows the fulfilment of Jewish burial customs and enables the beginning of the tomb scene. Joseph’s respectful actions contrast with the earlier indignity Jesus suffered and prepare his entombment in a new tomb.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000this man went to Pilate, and asked for the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded it to be given up.
KJV
King James Version · 1611He went to Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be delivered.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901this man went to Pilate, and asked for the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded it to be given up.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949This man went in to Pilate, and made a request for the body of Jesus. Then Pilate gave orders for it to be given to him.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862he having gone near to Pilate, asked for himself the body of Jesus; then Pilate commanded the body to be given back.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752He went to Pilate and asked the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded that the body should be delivered.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890He, going to Pilate, begged the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be given up.
Context
This verse follows Joseph’s request in verse 57 and records Pilate’s compliance. It moves the narrative from death to burial and leads into Joseph wrapping the body and placing it in a tomb (vv. 59–60). The scene emphasizes dignified care amid political hostility.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Luke 23:52
this man went to Pilate, and asked for the body of Jesus.
- Mark 15:44
And Pilate marvelled if he were already dead: and calling unto him the centurion, he asked him whether he had been any while dead.
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