Mark 15:6
New International Version
Now it was the custom at the festival to release a prisoner whom the people requested.

New Living Translation
Now it was the governor’s custom each year during the Passover celebration to release one prisoner—anyone the people requested.

English Standard Version
Now at the feast he used to release for them one prisoner for whom they asked.

Berean Standard Bible
Now it was Pilate’s custom at the feast to release to the people a prisoner of their choosing.

Berean Literal Bible
And at the feast, he used to release to them one prisoner, whom they requested.

King James Bible
Now at that feast he released unto them one prisoner, whomsoever they desired.

New King James Version
Now at the feast he was accustomed to releasing one prisoner to them, whomever they requested.

New American Standard Bible
Now at the Passover Feast he used to release for them any one prisoner whom they requested.

NASB 1995
Now at the feast he used to release for them any one prisoner whom they requested.

NASB 1977
Now at the feast he used to release for them any one prisoner whom they requested.

Legacy Standard Bible
Now at the feast he used to release for them any one prisoner whom they requested.

Amplified Bible
Now at the [Passover] feast Pilate used to set free for them any one prisoner whom they requested.

Christian Standard Bible
At the festival Pilate used to release for the people a prisoner whom they requested.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
At the festival it was Pilate’s custom to release for the people a prisoner they requested.

American Standard Version
Now at the feast he used to release unto them one prisoner, whom they asked of him.

Contemporary English Version
During Passover, Pilate always freed one prisoner chosen by the people.

English Revised Version
Now at the feast he used to release unto them one prisoner, whom they asked of him.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
At every Passover festival, Pilate would free one prisoner whom the people asked for.

Good News Translation
At every Passover Festival Pilate was in the habit of setting free any one prisoner the people asked for.

International Standard Version
At every festival, Pilate would release any one prisoner whom the people requested.

NET Bible
During the feast it was customary to release one prisoner to the people, whomever they requested.

New Heart English Bible
Now at the feast he used to release to them one prisoner, whom they requested.

Webster's Bible Translation
Now at that feast he released to them one prisoner, whom they desired.

Weymouth New Testament
Now at the Festival it was customary for Pilate to release to the Jews any one prisoner whom they might beg off from punishment;
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
Now it was Pilate’s custom at the feast to release to the people a prisoner of their choosing.

World English Bible
Now at the feast he used to release to them one prisoner, whomever they asked of him.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
And at every celebration he was releasing to them one prisoner, whomsoever they were asking for;

Berean Literal Bible
And at the feast, he used to release to them one prisoner, whom they requested.

Young's Literal Translation
And at every feast he was releasing to them one prisoner, whomsoever they were asking;

Smith's Literal Translation
And at the festival he loosed to them one in bonds, whomsoever they asked.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
Now on the festival day he was wont to release unto them one of the prisoners, whomsoever they demanded.

Catholic Public Domain Version
Now on the feast day, he was accustomed to release to them one of the prisoners, whomever they requested.

New American Bible
Now on the occasion of the feast he used to release to them one prisoner whom they requested.

New Revised Standard Version
Now at the festival he used to release a prisoner for them, anyone for whom they asked.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
Now it was the custom on every feast to release to them one prisoner, whom they asked for.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
But he had set a time at every feast to release one prisoner to them, whomever they requested.
NT Translations
Anderson New Testament
Now it was his custom to release to them, at the feast, one prisoner, whomever they desired.

Godbey New Testament
But during the feast he was accustomed to release unto them one prisoner, whom they asked,

Haweis New Testament
Now at the feast, he released one prisoner to them, whomsoever they petitioned for.

Mace New Testament
Now during the feast, it was customary to release a prisoner, to be nominated by the people.

Weymouth New Testament
Now at the Festival it was customary for Pilate to release to the Jews any one prisoner whom they might beg off from punishment;

Worrell New Testament
Now at the feast he was wont to release to them one prisoner, whom they asked of him.

Worsley New Testament
Now at the feast he used to release to them one prisoner, whomsoever they desired:

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
The Crowd Chooses Barabbas
5But to Pilate’s amazement, Jesus made no further reply. 6Now it was Pilate’s custom at the feast to release to the people a prisoner of their choosing. 7And a man named Barabbas was imprisoned with the rebels who had committed murder during the insurrection.…

Cross References
Matthew 27:15
Now it was the governor’s custom at the feast to release to the crowd a prisoner of their choosing.

Luke 23:17
Now Pilate was obliged to release to the people one prisoner at the feast.

John 18:39
But it is your custom that I release to you one prisoner at the Passover. So then, do you want me to release to you the King of the Jews?”

Acts 25:11
If, however, I am guilty of anything worthy of death, I do not refuse to die. But if there is no truth to their accusations against me, no one has the right to hand me over to them. I appeal to Caesar!”

Acts 25:16
I told them that it is not the Roman custom to hand a man over before he has had an opportunity to face his accusers and defend himself against their charges.

John 19:12
From then on, Pilate tried to release Him, but the Jews kept shouting, “If you release this man, you are no friend of Caesar. Anyone who declares himself a king is defying Caesar.”

Matthew 27:16-17
At that time they were holding a notorious prisoner named Barabbas. / So when the crowd had assembled, Pilate asked them, “Which one do you want me to release to you: Barabbas, or Jesus who is called Christ?”

Luke 23:18-19
But they all cried out in unison: “Away with this man! Release Barabbas to us!” / (Barabbas had been imprisoned for an insurrection in the city, and for murder.)

John 18:40
“Not this man,” they shouted, “but Barabbas!” (Now Barabbas was an insurrectionist.)

Acts 3:14
You rejected the Holy and Righteous One and asked that a murderer be released to you.

Acts 3:13
The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified His servant Jesus. You handed Him over and rejected Him before Pilate, even though he had decided to release Him.

Matthew 26:5
“But not during the feast,” they said, “or there may be a riot among the people.”

Luke 23:25
As they had requested, he released the one imprisoned for insurrection and murder, and he handed Jesus over to their will.

John 19:16
Then Pilate handed Jesus over to be crucified, and the soldiers took Him away.

Acts 24:27
After two years had passed, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus. And wishing to do the Jews a favor, Felix left Paul in prison.


Treasury of Scripture

Now at that feast he released to them one prisoner, whomsoever they desired.

Matthew 26:2,5
Ye know that after two days is the feast of the passover, and the Son of man is betrayed to be crucified…

Matthew 27:15
Now at that feast the governor was wont to release unto the people a prisoner, whom they would.

Luke 23:16,17
I will therefore chastise him, and release him

Jump to Previous
Beg Begged Custom Customary Desired Feast Festival Free Jews Pilate Prisoner Punishment Release Released Releasing Request Requested Used Whomsoever
Jump to Next
Beg Begged Custom Customary Desired Feast Festival Free Jews Pilate Prisoner Punishment Release Released Releasing Request Requested Used Whomsoever
Mark 15
1. Jesus brought bound, and accused before Pilate.
6. Upon the clamor of the people, the murderer Barabbas is released,
12. and Jesus delivered up to be crucified.
16. He is crowned with thorns, spit on, and mocked;
21. faints in bearing his cross;
27. hangs between two thieves;
29. suffers the triumphing reproaches of the crowd;
39. but is confessed by the centurion to be the Son of God;
42. and is honorably buried by Joseph.














Now it was Pilate’s custom at the feast
The practice of releasing a prisoner during the feast likely reflects a Roman attempt to maintain peace and goodwill among the Jewish population during Passover, a time of heightened nationalistic sentiment. This custom is not documented outside the Gospels, but it aligns with Roman practices of clemency and political pragmatism. The feast refers to Passover, a significant Jewish festival commemorating the Israelites' liberation from Egyptian slavery, which draws large crowds to Jerusalem.

to release to the people
The act of releasing a prisoner to the people underscores the political dynamics at play. Pilate, the Roman governor, sought to appease the Jewish populace and prevent unrest. This gesture of releasing a prisoner was a way to placate the masses and maintain order. The people’s involvement in choosing the prisoner highlights the tension between Roman authority and Jewish autonomy.

a prisoner of their choosing
The choice given to the people introduces a dramatic element to the narrative, emphasizing the theme of choice and responsibility. This moment foreshadows the decision between Jesus and Barabbas, symbolizing the broader spiritual choice between the path of Christ and the path of rebellion. The concept of substitution is central here, as Jesus, the innocent, is offered in place of Barabbas, the guilty, reflecting the theological theme of Jesus as the sacrificial Lamb who takes the place of sinners.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Pilate
The Roman governor of Judea, known for his role in the trial and crucifixion of Jesus. He is depicted as a figure who struggles with the decision to condemn Jesus, ultimately succumbing to the pressure of the crowd.

2. The Feast
Refers to the Passover, a significant Jewish festival commemorating the Israelites' liberation from Egyptian slavery. It was customary for the Roman governor to release a prisoner to the Jewish people during this time as a gesture of goodwill.

3. The People
The Jewish crowd present at the feast, who had the opportunity to choose which prisoner would be released. Their choice reflects the societal and political tensions of the time.

4. Prisoner
Although not named in this verse, the context reveals that Barabbas, a known insurrectionist, was the prisoner released instead of Jesus.

5. Custom
The practice of releasing a prisoner during the feast, which highlights the political dynamics and Pilate's attempt to maintain peace and order among the Jewish populace.
Teaching Points
Understanding Custom and Culture
Recognize the significance of cultural customs in biblical accounts and how they influence events. Pilate's custom reflects the political and social dynamics of the time.

The Power of Choice
Reflect on the choices we make and their consequences. The crowd's choice to release Barabbas over Jesus serves as a reminder of the importance of discernment and the impact of collective decisions.

Jesus as Our Substitute
Embrace the theological truth that Jesus took our place, much like He took Barabbas' place. This act of substitution is central to the Christian faith and calls us to live in gratitude and obedience.

The Role of Authority
Consider the responsibilities of those in authority, like Pilate, and the pressures they face. This can lead to discussions on how Christians should engage with and pray for leaders today.

The Influence of the Crowd
Be aware of the influence of societal pressures and the crowd mentality. As Christians, we are called to stand firm in our convictions, even when it goes against popular opinion.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Mark 15:6?

2. How does Mark 15:6 illustrate the concept of justice and mercy?

3. What can we learn about human nature from the crowd's choice in Mark 15:6?

4. How does Mark 15:6 connect to the concept of substitutionary atonement?

5. How can we apply the lessons of Mark 15:6 in our daily lives?

6. What does Mark 15:6 reveal about the political climate during Jesus' trial?

7. Why did Pilate offer to release a prisoner during the Passover festival in Mark 15:6?

8. What historical evidence supports the custom mentioned in Mark 15:6?

9. How does Mark 15:6 reflect the political climate of Roman-occupied Judea?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Mark 15?

11. In what year did Jesus die?

12. In Matthew 27:15–26, the tradition of releasing a prisoner at Passover is mentioned; where is the historical evidence for this practice?

13. Who was Barabbas in the Bible?

14. John 18:28 - How do we reconcile the precise timing of Jesus' trial and the Passover feast with other accounts that seem to present a different chronology?
What Does Mark 15:6 Mean
Now it was

• Mark opens the scene with “Now,” grounding the account in real time. We are in the early morning of the day of crucifixion (cf. Mark 15:1; John 18:28).

• Scripture presents these events as literal history, not myth; the Passover chronology is carefully preserved by all four Gospel writers (e.g., Luke 22:1, 7; John 19:14).


Pilate’s custom

• “Pilate was accustomed” points to a repeated practice, underscoring Rome’s calculated efforts to keep Judea quiet during volatile festivals (Matthew 27:15; Luke 23:17; John 18:39).

• This custom is not invented for dramatic effect; outside sources note similar political gestures by Roman governors to curry favor with subject peoples.

• The verse reminds us that God’s sovereign plan moved through genuine historical customs, demonstrating Proverbs 21:1—“The king’s heart is a watercourse in the hand of the LORD; He directs it wherever He pleases”.


at the feast

• The feast is Passover/Unleavened Bread (Mark 14:1). Passover celebrates Israel’s redemption from Egypt (Exodus 12:14).

• Releasing a prisoner during Passover—when Israel remembered deliverance—magnifies the contrast between true redemption in Christ and political tokenism.

John 19:14 labels the crucifixion day “the Day of Preparation for the Passover,” tying Jesus’ sacrifice to the Passover lamb imagery (1 Corinthians 5:7).


to release

• Pilate’s offer of release shows legal authority vested in him (John 19:10).

• The governor hopes clemency will spare Jesus, whom he knows is innocent (Luke 23:14).

• Yet the crowd’s demand for Barabbas and Pilate’s capitulation fulfill Acts 3:13: “You disowned Him before Pilate, though he had decided to release Him”.

• The motif of substitution emerges: an undeserving prisoner walks free while the righteous Son of God is condemned—foreshadowing the gospel’s heart (2 Corinthians 5:21).


to the people

• Authority to choose lies with “the people,” highlighting human responsibility (Matthew 27:20).

• The crowd had heard Jesus teach and witnessed His miracles, yet they prefer a rebel over their Messiah (John 18:40).

• Their collective voice illustrates Jeremiah 17:9—deceptive hearts choose darkness when light stands before them (John 3:19).


a prisoner

• The text soon identifies Barabbas, “who had been imprisoned with the rebels for committing murder during the insurrection” (Mark 15:7).

• God allows a stark comparison: the Prince of Peace versus a violent insurgent (Isaiah 9:6; Acts 3:14).

• The scene exposes the fallenness of man’s justice system and sets the stage for divine justice at the cross (Romans 3:26).


of their choosing

• The phrase underscores free agency: they consciously select rebellion over righteousness (Joshua 24:15).

• Their choice fulfills prophecy—“He was despised and rejected by men” (Isaiah 53:3).

• It also warns every generation: neutrality toward Christ is impossible; each person must decide (Deuteronomy 30:19; John 1:11–12).


summary

Mark 15:6 records an actual Passover custom God employed to spotlight the gospel’s core truth: an innocent Savior takes the place of the guilty so the guilty may go free. Pilate’s ritual, the crowd’s choice, and Barabbas’s release converge to illustrate substitution, human responsibility, and divine sovereignty—all faithfully chronicled to assure us that Scripture’s record is true and Jesus’ atoning work is the only path to real release.

(6) He released . . . whomsoever they desired.--Both verbs are in the tense which implies custom.

Verse 6. - St. Mark omits here what took place next in the order of events, namely, the sending of our Lord by Pilate to Herod (Luke 23:5). This was Herod Antipas, ruler of Galilee; and Pilate, apparently convinced of our Lord's innocence, hoped to escape the responsibility of condemning an innocent man, by handing him over to Herod; for Pilate had heard that our Lord was a Galilean. Moreover, he hoped to accomplish another good result, namely, to recover the favor of Herod, which was desirable on political grounds. The first intention failed; for Herod sent our Lord back to Pilate in mockery, "arraying him in gorgeous apparel" (περιβαλὼν ἐσθῆτα λαμπρὰν). But the second succeeded: "Herod and Pilate became friends with each other that very day" (Luke 23:12). There was now, however, another resource. At the feast (κατα ἑορτὴν) - literally, at feast-time - he used to release unto them one prisoner, whom they asked of him ὅνπερ ἠτοῦντο). In St. John (John 18:39) we read that Pilate said, "Ye have a custom, that I should release unto you one at the Passover."

Parallel Commentaries ...


Greek
Now {it was Pilate’s custom}
δὲ (de)
Conjunction
Strong's 1161: A primary particle; but, and, etc.

at
Κατὰ (Kata)
Preposition
Strong's 2596: A primary particle; down, in varied relations (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined).

[the] feast
ἑορτὴν (heortēn)
Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 1859: A festival, feast, periodically recurring. Of uncertain affinity; a festival.

to release
ἀπέλυεν (apelyen)
Verb - Imperfect Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 630: From apo and luo; to free fully, i.e. relieve, release, dismiss, or let die, pardon or divorce.

to [the people]
αὐτοῖς (autois)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative Masculine 3rd Person Plural
Strong's 846: He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.

a
ἕνα (hena)
Adjective - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 1520: One. (including the neuter Hen); a primary numeral; one.

prisoner
δέσμιον (desmion)
Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular
Strong's 1198: One bound, a prisoner. From desmon; a captive.

of their choosing.
παρῃτοῦντο (parētounto)
Verb - Imperfect Indicative Middle or Passive - 3rd Person Plural
Strong's 3868: From para and the middle voice of aiteo; to beg off, i.e. Deprecate, decline, shun.


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NT Gospels: Mark 15:6 Now at the feast he used (Mar Mk Mr)
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