New Testament
Matthew 27:6
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The chief priests picked up the silver and said, "We can't put this in the temple treasury — it's blood money."
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And the chief priests took the silver pieces, and said, It is not lawful for to put them into the treasury, because it is the price of blood.
What Matthew 27:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the chief priests are confronted with the moral implications of the money they received for betraying Jesus. They recognize that this silver, which was paid to Judas Iscariot for his betrayal, is tainted because it was earned through an act of treachery. They refuse to place it in the temple treasury, as it is considered 'blood money'—money that comes from wrongdoing and is thus unclean. This highlights their awareness of the ethical and spiritual laws governing their actions, even as they are complicit in the plot against Jesus. Their decision reflects a concern for ritual purity and the sanctity of the temple, even while they are engaged in a grave injustice. This moment serves as a stark reminder of the conflict between human actions and divine principles, illustrating how people can be aware of right and wrong yet still choose to act against their better judgment.
How to apply Matthew 27:6 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on the sources of our resources and the ethical implications of our actions. It challenges us to consider whether our gains are morally sound and to avoid benefiting from wrongdoing. We should strive to ensure that our financial dealings align with our values and integrity.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Judas Iscariot's story: The Field of Blood (Matthew 27:3–10)
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Judas Iscariot
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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Keep studying Matthew 27:6
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Key themes
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 Matthew 27:6 mean?
Matthew 27:6 describes the chief priests' refusal to put the silver they received for betraying Jesus into the temple treasury, recognizing it as 'blood money' from an immoral act. This highlights their awareness of the ethical implications of their actions, even as they participate in a grave injustice.
What is the significance of 'blood money' in Matthew 27:6?
In Matthew 27:6, 'blood money' refers to the silver paid to Judas Iscariot for betraying Jesus, which the chief priests deemed unclean and unfit for the temple treasury. This term underscores the moral corruption associated with the money earned through treachery.
What does this verse reveal about the chief priests' morality?
This verse reveals that the chief priests were aware of the moral implications of their actions, as they recognized the silver from Judas as tainted. Despite their involvement in betraying Jesus, they still adhered to certain ethical standards regarding the temple.
How can we apply the lesson from Matthew 27:6 in our lives?
Matthew 27:6 encourages us to examine the sources of our income and the ethical implications of our actions. It reminds us to avoid benefiting from wrongdoing and to ensure our financial dealings align with our values.
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