Matthew 27:23 (KJV)

What does Matthew 27:23 mean?

Matthew 27:23 shows the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate, questioning the crowd about why they want Jesus crucified, asking what evil Jesus has done, but the crowd only shouts louder for his crucifixion. The verse highlights Pilate’s confusion and the crowd’s determination to have Jesus executed, even without a clear reason.

In this scene, Pilate is speaking directly to the gathered crowd during Jesus’ trial. Pilate’s question, “Why, what evil hath he done?” suggests he sees no legitimate crime deserving death. Despite his challenge, the crowd becomes even more insistent, demanding Jesus be crucified, showing how public pressure and emotion are overwhelming justice in this moment.

The Greek behind Matthew 27:23

• κακόν (kakon, transliterated as "kakon") means "evil" or "wrong." Pilate’s use of this word emphasizes that he is asking for a specific wrongdoing or crime, not just something unpopular or offensive.
• ἐποίησεν (epoiēsen, transliterated as "epoiēsen") means "has he done." This verb points to Pilate’s focus on Jesus’ actual actions, not rumors or accusations.
• Ἐσταυρώθητω (estaurōthētō, transliterated as "estaurōthētō") means "let him be crucified." The crowd’s repeated use of this word shows their insistence on the harshest punishment, not just any penalty.

Why Matthew 27:23 matters

• Matthew 27:23 makes clear that even the Roman governor could find no real fault in Jesus, underlining the injustice of the situation.
• The verse highlights how the crowd’s emotion and insistence can override reason and fairness, a theme that runs through the trial narrative.
• This moment connects to the larger story by showing the mounting pressure on Pilate and setting the stage for Jesus’ crucifixion, despite the lack of evidence against him.