King James Version
What Does Matthew 27:6 Mean?
“And the chief priests took the silver pieces, and said, It is not lawful for to put them into the treasury, because it is the price of blood.”
Context
4
Saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood. And they said, What is that to us? see thou to that.
5
And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and departed, and went and hanged himself.
6
And the chief priests took the silver pieces, and said, It is not lawful for to put them into the treasury, because it is the price of blood.
7
And they took counsel, and bought with them the potter's field, to bury strangers in.
8
Wherefore that field was called, The field of blood, unto this day.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(6) **It is not lawful for to put them into the treasury.**—The Greek for the last word is the Corban, or sacred treasure-chest of the Temple, into which no foreign coins were admitted, and from which the Law (Deuteronomy 23:18) excluded the unclean offerings of the price of shame, which entered largely into the ritual of many heathen nations. By parity of reasoning, the priests seem to have thought that the blood-money which was thus returned was excluded also.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 27:6 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 27:6
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge