| 11. Linguistic Exegesis The sentence begins with the nominative subject phrase hoi archiereis {οἱ ἀρχιερεῖς | hoí archiereîs}, marked by the postpositive conjunction de {δὲ | dè} to signal contrast with the preceding actions of Pilate. The finite verb aneseisan {ἀνέσεισαν | anéseisan} follows, creating a straightforward subject–verb–object structure, with ton ochlon {τὸν ὄχλον | tón óchlon} as the accusative object. This main clause describes a completed, deliberate act of agitation by the priestly authorities. The subordinating conjunction hina {ἵνα | hína} introduces a purpose clause, indicating the intention behind the agitation. Within this clause, the comparative adverb mallon {μᾶλλον | mâllon} precedes ton Barabban {τὸν Βαραββᾶν | tón Barabbân}, highlighting preference for Barabbas in contrast to Jesus, who is understood from the wider context. The verb apolysei {ἀπολύσῃ | apolýsē} in the aorist subjunctive expresses the desired but not yet realized outcome, with its implicit subject being Pilate carried over contextually. The dative autois {αὐτοῖς | autoîs} functions as an indirect object of advantage, indicating that the release of Barabbas is to benefit the crowd. In translation, the main clause is kept as a discrete unit followed by a clearly marked purpose clause (“so that / to have”), preserving both the causal logic and the emphasis on manipulative persuasion that steers the crowd’s choice. |