Matthew 27:44 (KJV)

What does Matthew 27:44 mean?

Matthew 27:44 says that the two thieves who were crucified alongside Jesus also insulted him, joining in with the crowd’s mocking. This shows that Jesus was not only rejected by religious leaders and bystanders, but even by those suffering the same fate as him.

The scene takes place during Jesus’ crucifixion, with Matthew describing how both criminals on either side of Jesus hurled insults at him. The verse highlights the depth of Jesus’ isolation and the widespread rejection he faced in his final hours, as even those in similar circumstances turned against him.

The Greek behind Matthew 27:44

• "thieves" (λῃσταί, lēstai): This word refers to bandits or robbers, often understood as violent criminals rather than petty thieves. It emphasizes that those crucified with Jesus were considered serious offenders.
• "cast...in his teeth" (ὠνείδιζον, ōneidizon): The Greek word here means to reproach, insult, or heap abuse upon. The phrase “cast...in his teeth” is an old English way of saying they verbally abused or mocked him, not a literal action.
• "same" (ταὐτά, tauta): This word means “the same things,” showing that the thieves echoed the same insults and taunts as the crowd and religious leaders.

Why Matthew 27:44 matters

• This verse clarifies that both criminals initially mocked Jesus, which helps explain the fuller story when one later changes his attitude in Luke’s account.
• The detail that even those suffering alongside Jesus insulted him deepens the sense of his complete abandonment and the extent of the mockery he endured.
• Matthew 27:44 connects to the surrounding verses by showing how universal the rejection of Jesus was at this moment, fulfilling the theme of the suffering servant who is despised by all.