But they said: "Not during the Festival, for fear of causing a riot."

When Pilate saw that his efforts were unavailing, but that, on the contrary, a riot was beginning, he took some water, and washed his hands in the sight of the crowd, saying as he did so: "I am not answerable for this bloodshed; you must see to it yourselves."

For they said: "Not during the Festival, for fear of a riot."

A man called Barabbas was in prison, with the rioters who had committed murder during a riot.

(Barabbas was a man who had been put in prison for a riot that had broken out in the city and for murder.)

He released the man who had been put in prison for riot and murder, as they demanded, and gave Jesus up to be dealt with as they pleased.

For I tell you that we are in danger of being proceeded against for to-day's riot, there being nothing to account for it; and in that case we shall be at a loss to give any reason for this disorderly gathering."