Matthew 27:3 Meaning and Explanation
“Then Judas, which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself, and brought again the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders,”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Seeing Jesus condemned, Judas is seized with remorse and returns the betrayal money.
What Does Matthew 27:3 Mean?
The narrative pauses on Judas, who had handed Jesus over for thirty pieces of silver. When the verdict becomes real, the weight of what he has done overwhelms him, and he tries to give the silver back to the men who paid him.
Judas feels the sting of guilt and longs to undo his act, but he carries his sorrow to the priests rather than to the mercy of God. There is a grief that turns the heart toward forgiveness and a grief that only deepens into despair. His tragedy warns that remorse alone is not the same as the hope that finds its way back to the Lord.
Matthew 27:3 in the Original Language
metamelomai (μεταμέλομαι), 'repented himself' -- to feel regret or remorse over what one has done.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 27:3
What does Matthew 27:3 mean?
Seeing Jesus condemned, Judas is seized with remorse and returns the betrayal money.