Matthew 28:12

12 After the priests^[a] had assembled with the elders and agreed on a plan, they gave the soldiers a large sum of money

Matthew 28:12 Meaning and Commentary

Matthew 28:12

And when they were assembled with the elders
Upon this the grand sanhedrim was convened together, which consisted of the chief priests, Scribes, and elders;

and had taken counsel
among themselves what steps to take to stifle this matter, that it might not spread and be believed by the people; they agreed upon this, as the best expedient, to bribe the soldiers to give a false account of it, as they did:

they gave large money unto the soldiers,
or "sufficient money"; they gave large sums of money, as were enough to satisfy the soldiers; they gave them whatever they would have; for though these men were very covetous, yet upon this occasion gave liberally; and that perhaps which were for the sacrifices, or for the repair of the temple, or for the supply of the poor.

Matthew 28:12 In-Context

10 Then Jesus told them, "Do not be afraid. Go and tell My brothers to leave for Galilee, and they will see Me there."

11 As they were on their way, some of the guard came into the city and reported to the chief priests everything that had happened.

12 After the priests had assembled with the elders and agreed on a plan, they gave the soldiers a large sum of money

13 and told them, "Say this, 'His disciples came during the night and stole Him while we were sleeping.'

14 If this reaches the governor's ears, we will deal with him and keep you out of trouble."

Footnotes

• [a] Lit After they