Now at that feast the governor was wont to release to the people a prisoner, whom they would.
Now at that feast the governor was wont to release to the people a prisoner, whom they would.
Now at the feast the governor was wont to release unto the multitude one prisoner, whom they would.
Now at the feast it was the way for the ruler to let free to the people one prisoner, at their selection.
Now at that feast, the governor was wont to release to the people a prisoner, whom they would.
Now at the feast the governor was accustomed to release to the multitude one prisoner, whom they desired.
Now at the feast the governor was wont to release unto the multitude one prisoner, whom they would.
The governor was wont to release - Whence this custom originated among the Jews is not known, - probably it was introduced by the Romans themselves, or by Pilate, merely to oblige the Jews, by showing them this public token of respect; but if it originated with him, he must have had the authority of Augustus; for the Roman laws never gave such discretionary power to any governor.
See also the parallel places in Mark 15:6-14; Luke 23:17-23; John 18:39-40.
Matthew 27:15
At that feast - The feast of the Passover.
The governor was wont to release ... - that is, was "accustomed" to release.
From what this custom arose, or by whom it was introduced, is not known. It was probably adopted to secure popularity among the Jews, and to render the government of the Romans less odious. Any little indulgence granted to the Jews during the heavy oppression of the Romans would serve to conciliate their favor, and to keep the nation from sedition. It might happen often that when persons were arraigned before the Romans on charge of sedition, some special favorite of the people, or some leader, might be among the number. It is evident that if they had the privilege of recovering such a person, it would serve much to allay their feelings, and make tolerable the yoke under which they groaned.
27:15 At every feast - Every year, at the feast of the passover. 15:6 ; Luke 23:17; John 18:39.