Matthew 27:58

He went to Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be delivered.

He {G3778} went {G4334} to Pilate {G4091}, and begged {G154} the body {G4983} of Jesus {G2424}. Then {G5119} Pilate {G4091} commanded {G2753} the body {G4983} to be delivered {G591}.

He approached Pilate and asked for Yeshua's body, and Pilate ordered it to be given to him.

He went to Pilate to ask for the body of Jesus, and Pilate ordered that it be given to him.

this man went to Pilate, and asked for the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded it to be given up.

Matthew 27:58 details a crucial moment immediately following the crucifixion of Jesus, highlighting the unexpected courage of a prominent figure.

Context

The "He" in this verse refers to Joseph of Arimathaea, a rich man and a secret disciple of Jesus, who was also a respected member of the Jewish council (as described in Mark 15:43 and Luke 23:50-51). According to Roman custom, the bodies of crucified criminals were often left on the cross as a public deterrent or thrown into a common, unmarked grave. However, Jewish law required bodies to be buried before sundown, especially on the eve of a Sabbath or major feast like the Passover (as mentioned in John 19:31). Joseph’s immediate action to approach Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, was therefore both urgent and remarkably bold, as it publicly associated him with a condemned criminal.

Key Themes

  • Courageous Faith: Joseph of Arimathaea, who had been a secret follower (John 19:38), now steps forward publicly and risks his reputation and safety by requesting the body of Jesus. This act demonstrates a profound shift from hidden belief to open devotion.
  • Divine Providence and Prophecy Fulfilment: Despite the brutal nature of Jesus' death, God's plan ensured a dignified burial. This act fulfills the prophecy in Isaiah 53:9, which states that the Messiah would be "with the rich in his death."
  • Respect for the Deceased: Joseph’s actions underscore the importance of showing reverence and care for the dead, ensuring a proper burial even for one condemned by the state.
  • Pilate's Authority and Compliance: Pilate's quick command to deliver the body is noteworthy, indicating his continued authority and perhaps a lingering sense of guilt or expediency after the crucifixion.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "begged" is ēitēsato (ᾐτήσατο), which implies an earnest and formal request, not just a casual asking. It conveys Joseph's determination and the gravity of his petition to Pilate, emphasizing the boldness required to make such a plea for the body of a crucified man.

Practical Application

This verse encourages believers to find courage in their faith, even when it is difficult or unpopular. Joseph’s example teaches us to act decisively for what is right, to show compassion and respect, and to trust that God can use unexpected individuals to fulfill His purposes. It reminds us that even in moments of apparent defeat, God is working behind the scenes to accomplish His will and preserve dignity.

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.

  • Mark 15:44

    And Pilate marvelled if he were already dead: and calling [unto him] the centurion, he asked him whether he had been any while dead.

  • Mark 15:46

    And he bought fine linen, and took him down, and wrapped him in the linen, and laid him in a sepulchre which was hewn out of a rock, and rolled a stone unto the door of the sepulchre.

  • Luke 23:52

    This [man] went unto Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus.

  • Luke 23:53

    And he took it down, and wrapped it in linen, and laid it in a sepulchre that was hewn in stone, wherein never man before was laid.

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