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

MATTHEW 27:14KJV
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Matthew 27:14 (KJV)

What does Matthew 27:14 mean?

Matthew 27:14 describes how Jesus remained completely silent before the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate, not answering any of the accusations brought against him. This silence was so unexpected that Pilate was greatly amazed.

In this scene, Jesus is on trial before Pilate after being accused by the religious leaders. Pilate is questioning Jesus, likely expecting some kind of defense or protest, but Jesus does not respond at all. The governor’s astonishment highlights how unusual it was for someone facing serious charges to say nothing in their own defense.

The Greek behind Matthew 27:14

  • The word θαυμάζω (thaumazō, G2296), translated "marvelled," means to be amazed or astonished. The Greek here emphasizes that Pilate’s reaction was not mild surprise but strong, genuine wonder at Jesus’ silence.
  • The phrase οὐδὲ ἓν ῥῆμα (oude hen rhēma, G3761, G1520, G4487), meaning "not even one word," is very emphatic in Greek. It stresses that Jesus did not say a single thing in response, not even the smallest reply.
  • The word ἡγεμών (hēgemōn, G2232), translated "governor," specifically refers to Pilate’s official Roman authority, underlining the seriousness of the setting and the power imbalance in the scene.

Why Matthew 27:14 matters

  • This verse clears up any idea that Jesus was simply passive or caught off guard; his silence is deliberate and striking, especially in a legal setting where defending oneself was expected.
  • Matthew’s account highlights Pilate’s reaction, drawing attention to the unusual dignity and composure of Jesus, which stands out even to a Roman official.
  • The verse connects to Old Testament themes of the suffering servant who remains silent before his accusers, adding depth to how early readers might have understood Jesus’ actions.

Where else these words appear

“greatly” Greek G3029 · used in 14 verses

  • Matthew 2:16 Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently enquired of the wise men.
  • Mark 6:51 And he went up unto them into the ship; and the wind ceased: and they were sore amazed in themselves beyond measure, and wondered.
  • 2 Corinthians 11:5 For I suppose I was not a whit behind the very chiefest apostles.

“governor” Greek G2232 · used in 21 verses

  • Matthew 2:6 And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.
  • Matthew 27:23 And the governor said, Why, what evil hath he done? But they cried out the more, saying, Let him be crucified.
  • Acts 23:26 Claudius Lysias unto the most excellent governor Felix sendeth greeting.

“marvelled” Greek G2296 · used in 46 verses

  • Matthew 8:10 When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.
  • Luke 2:18 And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.
  • John 7:15 And the Jews marvelled, saying, How knoweth this man letters, having never learned?

“word” Greek G4487 · used in 67 verses

  • Matthew 4:4 But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.
  • Luke 20:26 And they could not take hold of his words before the people: and they marvelled at his answer, and held their peace.
  • Acts 10:44 While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word.