Matthew 28:12

12 and having been gathered together with the elders, counsel also having taken, they gave much 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 saith Jesus to them, `Fear ye not, go away, tell to my brethren that they may go away to Galilee, and there they shall see me.'

11 And while they are going on, lo, certain of the watch having come to the city, told to the chief priests all the things that happened,

12 and having been gathered together with the elders, counsel also having taken, they gave much money to the soldiers,

13 saying, `Say ye, that his disciples having come by night, stole him -- we being asleep;

14 and if this be heard by the governor, we will persuade him, and you keep free from anxiety.'