New Testament
Matthew 27:28
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They stripped him and draped a scarlet robe over him.
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And they stripped him, and put on him a scarlet robe.
What Matthew 27:28 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the soldiers are mocking Jesus after his arrest. They strip him of his clothes, which is a humiliating act, and then they put a scarlet robe on him. The scarlet color symbolizes royalty, but in this context, it is used sarcastically to mock Jesus' claim to be the King of the Jews. This act of dressing him in a robe is part of the larger scene of humiliation and torture that Jesus endures before his crucifixion. The soldiers are not recognizing his true identity; instead, they are ridiculing him. This moment highlights the cruelty of the soldiers and the depth of Jesus' suffering. It serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifice he is making for humanity, as he faces mockery and pain without retaliation. The scarlet robe, while meant to belittle, ironically points to the truth of Jesus' kingship, which will be fully revealed after his resurrection.
How to apply Matthew 27:28 to your life
This verse challenges us to reflect on how we treat others, especially those who are vulnerable or suffering. It reminds us to show compassion rather than mockery, and to recognize the dignity in every person, regardless of their circumstances.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: On Trial Before Pilate (Matthew 27:11–31)
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Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does the scarlet robe symbolize in Matthew 27:28?
In Matthew 27:28, the scarlet robe symbolizes mockery rather than true royalty. The soldiers dress Jesus in this robe to ridicule his claim to be the King of the Jews. While scarlet is often associated with kingship and authority, in this context, it highlights the irony of their actions as they humiliate him instead of recognizing his true identity.
Why did the soldiers strip Jesus before putting on the robe?
The soldiers stripped Jesus as part of their cruel treatment and humiliation following his arrest. Stripping him of his clothes was a way to degrade him further, emphasizing his vulnerability and suffering. By then placing a scarlet robe on him, they mockingly pretended to honor him as a king, showcasing their disdain and cruelty.
How does Matthew 27:28 relate to the theme of suffering?
Matthew 27:28 illustrates the depth of Jesus' suffering during his crucifixion. The act of being stripped and mocked by the soldiers highlights the physical and emotional pain he endured. This moment is a poignant reminder of the sacrifice he made for humanity, facing humiliation and torture without retaliation, which deepens our understanding of his suffering.
What can we learn from the mockery of Jesus in this verse?
The mockery of Jesus in Matthew 27:28 teaches us about the importance of compassion and empathy towards others, especially those who are vulnerable or suffering. It challenges us to reflect on our own actions and attitudes, encouraging us to treat others with dignity and respect rather than ridicule, regardless of their circumstances.
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