Definition: And said [unto them], What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you? And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 26:15. It's a really important and dramatic passage about Jesus’ final moments. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, Jesus is asking his disciples what they are willing to offer him as payment for his death. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And said [unto them]…” : Jesus is speaking directly to his followers – the twelve apostles. He's giving a clear instruction. “…What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you?” This is the core of the question. Jesus wants to know what they’re prepared to do for him. He’s framing it as a transaction - he needs something in return for his sacrifice. “And they covenanted with him…” : This suggests a solemn agreement, a promise made before he dies. They've essentially pledged their loyalty and support to him. “…for thirty pieces of silver.” This is the crucial part. "Pieces of silver" are a precious metal – gold or silver. Jesus tells them they’ll offer thirty pieces of silver as a price for his life. What does this all mean? It's a very unusual and symbolic way to express payment for someone's death. It suggests: A High Price: Jesus was incredibly valuable, and he wanted a significant amount of money for his life. A Symbolic Offering: Giving thirty pieces of silver wasn’t about literal gold. It represents the value of Jesus’ life – his sacrifice, his love, and his hope for salvation. A Promise of Remembrance: The coins also symbolize remembrance of Jesus' sacrifice and the eternal bond between him and his followers. In short, this verse describes a solemn agreement made before Jesus’ death: He will be delivered to them in exchange for thirty pieces of silver. Important Note: This is one of the most debated passages in the Gospels. Some scholars believe it was a deliberate symbolic gesture designed to emphasize Jesus' sacrifice and his ultimate triumph over death. --- Would you like me to explain any specific part of this verse further, or perhaps discuss its symbolism? For example, we could talk about: The context of the events surrounding this verse Its significance in the Bible as a whole