Matthew 27:58 (KJV)

What does Matthew 27:58 mean?

Matthew 27:58 describes how Joseph of Arimathea approached Pilate and asked for permission to take Jesus’ body after the crucifixion. Pilate agreed and ordered that Jesus’ body be given to Joseph.

In this verse, Joseph—a respected member of the Jewish council who had become a follower of Jesus—takes a bold step by going directly to the Roman governor, Pilate, to request Jesus’ body. This happened after Jesus had died on the cross, and the request was unusual because crucified bodies were often left unburied. The verse highlights Joseph’s courage and the official involvement of Pilate in allowing Jesus’ burial.

The Greek behind Matthew 27:58

• The word translated as "begged" is ᾐτήσατο (ēitēsato), from the root αἰτέω (aiteō), which means to ask or request earnestly. This shows Joseph’s respectful but urgent plea, not a casual question.
• The word for "body" is σῶμα (sōma), which simply means a physical body. Its repetition in the verse emphasizes the real, physical death of Jesus and the care taken for his remains.
• The verb "commanded" is ἐκέλευσεν (ekeleusen), from κελεύω (keleuō), meaning to give an authoritative order. Pilate’s response is not just permission but an official directive, showing the legal process behind Jesus’ burial.

Why Matthew 27:58 matters

• This verse clarifies that Jesus’ burial was not done in secret or by stealth, but with official Roman approval, which supports the historical credibility of the burial account.
• The involvement of Joseph, a known public figure, and Pilate, the Roman governor, shows that Jesus’ death and burial were witnessed and handled by recognized authorities.
• The verse connects to the fulfillment of prophecy and sets the stage for the resurrection narrative, emphasizing that Jesus was truly dead and buried before Easter morning.