Mark 15:5

But Jesus yet answered nothing; so that Pilate marvelled.

But {G1161} Jesus {G2424} yet {G3765} answered {G611} nothing {G3762}; so {G5620} that Pilate {G4091} marvelled {G2296}.

But Yeshua made no further response, to Pilate's amazement.

But to Pilate’s amazement, Jesus made no further reply.

But Jesus no more answered anything; insomuch that Pilate marvelled.

Mark 15:5 describes a pivotal moment in Jesus' trial before Pontius Pilate, highlighting Jesus' profound silence in the face of numerous accusations.

Context

This verse immediately follows Pilate's direct questioning of Jesus regarding His claim to be "King of the Jews" (Mark 15:2) and the subsequent barrage of accusations from the chief priests and elders. Jesus had already given a brief, enigmatic affirmation to Pilate's initial question. However, as the accusations intensified and multiplied from His accusers, Jesus chose to remain completely silent, offering no defense or further explanation. This unexpected response deeply affected Pilate, who was accustomed to defendants pleading their cases vigorously.

Key Themes

  • Sovereignty and Dignified Silence: Jesus' silence is not born of fear or inability to defend Himself, but of divine purpose and control. It signifies His absolute sovereignty over the situation, even in His apparent vulnerability. His silence speaks louder than any words, asserting His identity and mission without engaging in futile debate with His accusers.
  • Fulfillment of Prophecy: Jesus' silence directly fulfills Old Testament prophecy, particularly from Isaiah. The prophet Isaiah spoke of the Suffering Servant who "was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth" (Isaiah 53:7). This shows Jesus' deliberate submission to God's redemptive plan.
  • Pilate's Amazement: The KJV states that Pilate "marvelled." The Greek word for "marvelled" is ethaumasen, indicating profound astonishment or wonder. Pilate, a shrewd Roman governor, was utterly taken aback by Jesus' composure and refusal to defend Himself, which was contrary to all legal precedent and human instinct. This reaction underscores Jesus' unique and extraordinary nature.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "answered nothing" (Greek: ouden eti apekrithē) emphasizes the complete absence of any further reply. It's a stark contrast to the clamor of the accusations. Pilate's reaction, "marvelled," suggests a mixture of bewilderment, perhaps a dawning realization of Jesus' innocence, and an unsettling sense of His unusual authority, despite His bound state.

Practical Application

Jesus' silent endurance offers a powerful example for believers. In moments of false accusation, misunderstanding, or unjust criticism, there are times when silence, rather than a frantic defense, can be the most profound and powerful response. This silence, rooted in trust in God's ultimate justice and purpose, reflects a surrender to His will, much like Christ's. It reminds us that our vindication ultimately comes from God, not from our own arguments. Jesus' actions here underscore the depth of His humility and His unwavering commitment to the Father's plan for salvation, even to the point of a silent, undeserved death.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Isaiah 53:7

    He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth.

  • Zechariah 3:8

    ¶ Hear now, O Joshua the high priest, thou, and thy fellows that sit before thee: for they [are] men wondered at: for, behold, I will bring forth my servant the BRANCH.

  • 1 Corinthians 4:9

    For I think that God hath set forth us the apostles last, as it were appointed to death: for we are made a spectacle unto the world, and to angels, and to men.

  • Psalms 71:7

    I am as a wonder unto many; but thou [art] my strong refuge.

  • Matthew 27:14

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

  • John 19:9

    And went again into the judgment hall, and saith unto Jesus, Whence art thou? But Jesus gave him no answer.

  • Isaiah 8:18

    Behold, I and the children whom the LORD hath given me [are] for signs and for wonders in Israel from the LORD of hosts, which dwelleth in mount Zion.

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