Matthew 28:12

12 And they being assembled together with the ancients, taking counsel, gave a great 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 said to them: Fear not. Go, tell my brethren that they go into Galilee. There they shall see me.

11 Who when they were departed, behold, some of the guards came into the city and told the chief priests all things that had been done.

12 And they being assembled together with the ancients, taking counsel, gave a great sum of money to the soldiers,

13 Saying: Say you, His disciples came by night and stole him away when we were asleep.

14 And if the governor shall hear of this, we will persuade him and secure you.