# Now

This word is used here to mark a pause in the story so Matthew can give information to help the reader understand what happens beginning in [Matthew 27:17](../27/17.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/writing-background]])

# the festival

This is the Passover celebration.

# prisoner chosen by the crowd

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "prisoner whom the crowd would choose" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-activepassive]])