Matthew 26:1-5
Cometh ( γινετα ). Futuristic use of the present middle indicative. This was probably our Tuesday evening (beginning of Jewish Wednesday). The passover began on our Thursday evening (beginning of Jewish Friday).After two days ( μετα δυο ημερας ) is just the familiar popular mode of speech. The passover came technically on the second day from this time.
Is delivered up ( παραδιδοτα ). Another instance of the futuristic present passive indicative. The same form occurs in verse 24. Thus Jesus sets a definite date for the coming crucifixion which he has been predicting for six months.
Then were gathered together the chief priests and elders of the people ( Τοτε συνηχθησαν ο αρχιερεις κα ο πρεσβυτερο του λαου ). A meeting of the Sanhedrin as these two groups indicate (cf. 21:23).
Unto the court ( εις την αυλην ). The atrium or court around which the palace buildings were built. Here in this open court this informal meeting was held. Caiaphas was high priest A.D. 18 to 36. His father-in-law Annas had been high priest A.D. 6 to 15 and was still called high priest by many.
They took counsel together ( συνεβουλευσαντο ). Aorist middle indicative, indicating their puzzled state of mind. They have had no trouble in finding Jesus (Joh 11:57). Their problem now is how to
take Jesus by subtilty and kill him ( ινα τον Ιησουν δολω κρατησοσιν κα αποκτεινωσιν ). The Triumphal Entry and the Tuesday debate in the temple revealed the powerful following that Jesus had among the crowds from Galilee.
A tumult ( θορυβος ). They feared the uprising in behalf of Jesus and were arguing that the matter must be postponed till after the feast was over when the crowds had scattered. Then they could catch him "by craft" ( δολω ) as they would trap a wild beast.
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