Matthew 20:8 - Ellicott's Commentary On The Whole Bible

Bible Comments

When even was come. — It was one of the humane rules of the Mosaic law that the day-labourer was to be paid by the day, and not made to wait for his wages (Deuteronomy 24:15). This law the householder keeps, and his doing so is a feature in his character.

Beginning from the last unto the first. — The order is not without its significance. It was a practical illustration of the words which had introduced the parable, that the last should be the first.

Matthew 20:8

8 So when even was come, the lord of the vineyard saith unto his steward, Call the labourers, and give them their hire, beginning from the last unto the first.