Matthew 27:39 (KJV)

What does Matthew 27:39 mean?

Matthew 27:39 describes how people passing by Jesus as He was crucified insulted Him and showed their contempt by shaking their heads at Him. The verse highlights the public humiliation and scorn Jesus faced during His crucifixion.

The scene takes place as Jesus is hanging on the cross, and those traveling by the site—likely ordinary people and not just religious leaders—verbally abuse Him. The act of "wagging their heads" was a common gesture in that culture to show mockery or disbelief, emphasizing how deeply Jesus was rejected and ridiculed by the crowds.

The Greek behind Matthew 27:39

• "reviled" (ἐβλασφήμουν, G987, transliteration: eblasphēmoun): This word means to insult, slander, or speak evil against someone. In this context, it shows that the passersby were not just making casual remarks but were actively mocking and speaking harshly against Jesus.
• "wagging" (κινοῦντες, G2795, transliteration: kinountes): This verb means to move or shake, and here it refers specifically to shaking the head. In the culture of the time, this gesture was a visible sign of scorn or derision, making the mockery even more public and humiliating.

Why Matthew 27:39 matters

• Matthew 27:39 clarifies that the ridicule Jesus faced was not limited to the authorities or soldiers but came from everyday people passing by, showing the widespread rejection He experienced.
• The verse connects to Old Testament imagery, especially Psalm 22:7, where the suffering servant is mocked in a similar way, highlighting the fulfillment of prophecy in Jesus’ crucifixion.
• Understanding the meaning of "reviled" and "wagging their heads" helps modern readers grasp the depth of public shame and isolation Jesus endured in His final hours.