Matthew 27:39. They that passed by. People walking about, probably coming that way, for the purpose of seeing the execution. The morbid taste for horrors no doubt existed then, and popular hatred was aroused. Besides, the dignitaries were there (Matthew 27:41)! The elevation seems to have formed a natural stage for the public exposure of the crucified.

Reviled, literally, ‘blasphemed.' They reviled, but it was in this case blasphemy.

Wagging their heads (comp. Psalms 22:6), in malignant triumph mingled with contempt.

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Old Testament