Mark 15:11
What does Mark 15:11 mean?
A plain-English look at Mark 15:11 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Mark 15:11 means
The chief priests actively incite the crowd to demand Barabbas instead of Jesus. Their agitation shows calculated manipulation; they prefer a violent insurgent to avoid acknowledging Jesus’ authority. This verse reveals the leadership’s role in orchestrating the mob and in turning public sentiment away from justice. Their influence over the populace demonstrates how religious authority can be abused to achieve political ends, and it prepares the heart-wrenching scene where truth loses to power and prejudice.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000But the chief priests stirred up the multitude, that he should rather release Barabbas unto them.
KJV
King James Version · 1611But the chief priests moved the people, that he should rather release Barabbas unto them.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901But the chief priests stirred up the multitude, that he should rather release Barabbas unto them.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949But the people were moved by the chief priests to make him let Barabbas go free.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862and the chief priests did move the multitude, that he might rather release Barabbas to them.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752But the chief priests moved the people, that he should rather release Barabbas to them.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890But the chief priests stirred up the crowd that he might rather release Barabbas to them.
Context
This follows Pilate’s insight into their envy. The leaders do not relent but instead intensify the crowd’s demand. This escalation shows the battle is not between Pilate and the people only, but largely shaped by the priests’ provocation. It keeps building toward the crowd’s cry for crucifixion.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- John 18:40
They cried out therefore again, saying, Not this man, but Barabbas. Now Barabbas was a robber.
- Matthew 27:20
Now the chief priests and the elders persuaded the multitudes that they should ask for Barabbas, and destroy Jesus.
- Acts 3:14
But ye denied the Holy and Righteous One, and asked for a murderer to be granted unto you,
- Hosea 5:1
Hear this, O ye priests, and hearken, O house of Israel, and give ear, O house of the king; for unto you pertaineth the judgment; for ye have been a snare at Mizpah, and a net spread upon Tabor.
Related questions readers ask
Keep reading
Want to dig deeper? Explore Mark 15
Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on Mark 15.
Topics that quote it
Topic
Bible Verses About Adultery
Adultery, a grave sin against God and marriage, represents a betrayal of trust and a violation of sacred vows.
Topic
Bible Verses About Baptism
Baptism is a significant act symbolizing new life in Christ, repentance, and identification with his death, burial, and resurrection.
Topic
Bible Verses About Blasphemy
Blasphemy in the Bible refers to irreverence shown toward God, holy things, and even people who represent God.
What the Bible says about…
Verses for this moment
Verses for
Bible Verses for When You Feel Spiritually Numb
When God feels distant and you feel nothing — verses for the dry season.
Verses for
Bible Verses for When Your Marriage Is Falling Apart
When the silence at home is louder than the words — verses to pray for your marriage.
Verses for
Bible Verses for Burnout as a Christian
When ministry, work, or caregiving has emptied you — scripture for refilling.