New Testament
Matthew 27:62
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse takes place after the crucifixion of Jesus, highlighting the actions of the religious leaders.
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
The next day — the day after Preparation Day — the chief priests and Pharisees went together to Pilate.
Now the next day, that followed the day of the preparation, the chief priests and Pharisees came together unto Pilate,
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse takes place after the crucifixion of Jesus, highlighting the actions of the religious leaders. The "day after Preparation Day" refers to the Sabbath, a day of rest for the Jewish people. The chief priests and Pharisees, who were part of the Jewish ruling council, gathered to discuss their concerns about Jesus' body. They were worried that his disciples might steal the body and claim he had risen from the dead, which would undermine their authority and the narrative they had created around Jesus' death. Their meeting with Pilate, the Roman governor, indicates their desire to secure a guard for the tomb, showing their determination to prevent any potential resurrection claims. This moment underscores the tension between the religious leaders and the followers of Jesus, setting the stage for the events that follow, including the resurrection. It reflects the lengths to which the leaders would go to maintain control and suppress the truth they feared would disrupt their power.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Matthew 27:62 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of addressing our fears and doubts directly. Just as the chief priests and Pharisees took action based on their concerns, we should confront our uncertainties with faith and seek guidance in our decisions, trusting in God's plan.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 'Preparation Day' mean in Matthew 27:62?
'Preparation Day' refers to the day before the Sabbath, when the Jewish people prepared for their day of rest. In the context of Matthew 27:62, it indicates the day after Jesus' crucifixion, highlighting the urgency of the religious leaders' actions as they sought to secure the tomb of Jesus before the Sabbath began.
Why did the chief priests and Pharisees go to Pilate?
The chief priests and Pharisees went to Pilate to express their concerns about Jesus' body. They feared that his disciples might steal the body and claim he had risen from the dead, which would undermine their authority and the narrative surrounding Jesus' death. Their meeting with Pilate was an attempt to prevent any potential resurrection claims.
What can we learn from the actions of the religious leaders in this verse?
The actions of the religious leaders in Matthew 27:62 illustrate the lengths to which individuals may go to protect their authority and control. It serves as a reminder to confront our fears and uncertainties directly, rather than allowing them to dictate our actions. We can learn the importance of seeking truth and guidance in our decisions, rather than succumbing to fear.
How does this verse relate to the resurrection of Jesus?
Matthew 27:62 sets the stage for the resurrection by showcasing the fear and concern of the religious leaders regarding Jesus' potential return. Their efforts to secure the tomb highlight the significance of the resurrection event, as it directly challenges their authority and the narrative they had constructed around Jesus' death.

The Book of Matthew
Matthew 1: The Generation and Birth of Jesus Christ
The book begins with the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. It records the generations from Abraham to David, from David until the carrying away into Babylon, and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ, each being fourteen generations. The genealogy concludes with Jacob begetting Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.
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