This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet:
“I will open My mouth in parables;
I will utter things hidden since the foundation of the world.”

But since he did not have the means to repay, his lord commanded him to be sold, along with his wife and children and all that he had, and repayment to be made.

For then there will be a great tribulation, such as has not occurred since the beginning of the world until now, nor ever will.

The chief priests took the pieces of silver and said, “It is not lawful to put them into the temple treasury, since it is the price of blood.”