John 19:22 - Clarke's commentary and critical notes on the Bible

Bible Comments

Pilate answered, What I have written I have written. What I have written, I have written - That is, I will not alter what I have written. The Roman laws forbad the sentence to be altered when once pronounced; and as this inscription was considered as the sentence pronounced against our Lord, therefore, it could not be changed: but this form of speech is common in the Jewish writings, and means simply, what is done shall continue. Pilate seems to speak prophetically. This is the king of the Jews: they shall have no other Messiah for ever.

John 19:22

22 Pilate answered, What I have written I have written.