King James Version

What Does Matthew 27:14 Mean?

Matthew 27:14 in the King James Version says “And he answered him to never a word; insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly. — study this verse from Matthew chapter 27 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

And he answered him to never a word; insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly.

Matthew 27:14 · KJV


Context

12

And when he was accused of the chief priests and elders, he answered nothing.

13

Then said Pilate unto him, Hearest thou not how many things they witness against thee?

14

And he answered him to never a word; insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly.

15

Now at that feast the governor was wont to release unto the people a prisoner, whom they would.

16

And they had then a notable prisoner, called Barabbas.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And he answered him to never a word; insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly (ἐθαύμασεν λίαν)—The Greek ethaumasen lian (marveled exceedingly) shows Pilate's amazement. No defendant remained silent when facing crucifixion—Rome's most horrific execution, reserved for slaves and rebels.

Pilate sensed something transcendent. This was no ordinary prisoner. Jesus's majestic silence was more powerful than eloquent defense, revealing His divine self-control and sovereign purpose. 'He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth' (Isaiah 53:7).

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Crucifixion was Rome's ultimate deterrent—a slow, excruciating public death designed to humiliate and terrorize. Roman citizens were exempt; it was for non-citizens, especially slaves and insurrectionists. That Jesus faced this willingly was incomprehensible.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does Jesus's majestic silence in the face of death reveal about His character and mission?
  2. How should the horror of crucifixion deepen your appreciation for what Christ endured for your redemption?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 13 words
καὶ1 of 13

And

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

οὐκ2 of 13

he answered

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

ἀπεκρίθη3 of 13
G611

to conclude for oneself, i.e., (by implication) to respond; by hebraism (compare h6030) to begin to speak (where an address is expected)

αὐτῷ4 of 13

him

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

πρὸς5 of 13

to

G4314

a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,

οὐδὲ6 of 13

never

G3761

not however, i.e., neither, nor, not even

ἓν7 of 13

a

G1520

one

ῥῆμα8 of 13

word

G4487

an utterance (individually, collectively or specially),; by implication, a matter or topic (especially of narration, command or dispute); with a negat

ὥστε9 of 13

insomuch

G5620

so too, i.e., thus therefore (in various relations of consecution, as follow)

θαυμάζειν10 of 13

marvelled

G2296

to wonder; by implication, to admire

τὸν11 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἡγεμόνα12 of 13

that the governor

G2232

a leader, i.e., chief person (or figuratively, place) of a province

λίαν13 of 13

greatly

G3029

much (adverbially)


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Matthew 27:14 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Matthew 27:14 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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