Matthew 28:12

12 And having assembled with the elders, and having taken counsel, they gave a large sum of money to the soldiers,

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 says to them, Fear not; go, bring word to my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there they shall see me.

11 And as they went, behold, some of the watch went into the city, and brought word to the chief priests of all that had taken place.

12 And having assembled with the elders, and having taken counsel, they gave a large sum of money to the soldiers,

13 saying, Say that his disciples coming by night stole him [while] we [were] sleeping.

14 And if this should come to the hearing of the governor, *we* will persuade him, and save *you* from all anxiety.