Mark 15:4
What does Mark 15:4 mean?
A plain-English look at Mark 15:4 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Mark 15:4 means
Pilate challenges Jesus to speak in his own defense, noting the numerous accusations against him. Pilate’s question is procedural—expecting a response that might clarify the charges and influence his decision. There is a hint of genuine curiosity or perhaps frustration in Pilate’s plea for an answer. This moment underscores Jesus’ unique silence and the inadequacy of the leaders’ accusations to define him. Pilate’s role as judge is tested by the mismatch between legal norms and the political pressures he faces.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000And Pilate again asked him, saying, Answerest thou nothing? behold how many things they accuse thee of.
KJV
King James Version · 1611And Pilate asked him again, saying, Answerest thou nothing? behold how many things they witness against thee.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901And Pilate again asked him, saying, Answerest thou nothing? behold how many things they accuse thee of.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949And Pilate again put a question, Do you say nothing in answer? see how much evil they say you have done.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862And Pilate again questioned him, saying, `Thou dost not answer anything! lo, how many things they do testify against thee!'
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752And Pilate again asked him, saying: Answerest thou nothing? Behold in how many things they accuse thee.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890And Pilate asked him again, saying, Answerest thou nothing? See of how many things they bear witness against thee.
Context
This comes immediately after the leaders’ barrage of accusations. Pilate’s demand contrasts with their noisy claims; he seeks testimony or clarity. The reader should see the legal theater: Rome’s process is invoked, but the scene is dominated by pressure from Jewish authorities and a crowd. The question anticipates Jesus’ silence and Pilate’s marveling reaction.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- John 19:10
Pilate therefore saith unto him, Speakest thou not unto me? knowest thou not that I have power to release thee, and have power to crucify thee?
- Matthew 26:62
And the high priest stood up, and said unto him, Answerest thou nothing? what is it which these witness against thee?
- Matthew 27:13
Then saith Pilate unto him, Hearest thou not how many things they witness against thee?
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