Mark 15:6

Translations

Modern

Now it was Pilate’s custom at the feast to release to the people a prisoner of their choosing.

Traditional

Now at that feast he released unto them one prisoner, whomsoever they desired.

Literal

Now at the feast he would release to them one prisoner whom they requested.

Latin

Per diem autem festum solebat dimittere illis unum ex vinctis, quemcumque petissent.

Original

Greek

English

Now it was Pilate’s custom at the feast to release to the people a prisoner of their choosing.

Notes

Mark 15:6–8

The custom described in 15:6–8 is not known outside of the Gospels, but all four Gospels mention it (Matthew 27:15–21; Luke 23:18–25; John 18:37–40). In many cases, ancient societies released prisoners during special holidays.
Barabbas: See also Matthew 27:16–17; Luke 23:19.
who had committed murder during the insurrection: Pilate's willingness to release Barabbas likely shows that Barabbas had not killed Roman citizens or soldiers (Matthew 15:15).

Mark 15:1–15

After Peter denied Christ , Mark returns to the story of Jesus and his trial. Pilate's hesitating under pressure matches what other sources say about his personality.

Theme notes and profiles

Pontius Pilate

Events

Related verses

John 18:39–40
But it is your custom that I release to you one prisoner at the Passover. So then, do you want me to release to you the King of the Jews?”
Acts 24:27
After two years had passed, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus. And wishing to do the Jews a favor, Felix left Paul in prison.
Acts 25:9
But Festus, wishing to do the Jews a favor, said to Paul, “Are you willing to go up to Jerusalem to stand trial before me on these charges?”
Matthew 26:2
“You know that the Passover is two days away, and the Son of Man will be handed over to be crucified.”
Luke 23:16–25
Therefore I will punish Him and release Him.”
Matthew 27:15–26
Now it was the governor’s custom at the feast to release to the crowd a prisoner of their choosing.
Matthew 26:5
“But not during the feast,” they said, “or there may be a riot among the people.”
John 19:16
Then Pilate handed Jesus over to be crucified, and the soldiers took Him away.

Mark 15:6

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Translations

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