For Pilate knew that they had handed Jesus over out of envy.
Pilate understood that the accusations brought against Jesus were not the result of a just judgment, but of envy: the religious leaders could not endure His authority, His power, and the people’s love for Him. This statement reveals the deep root of sin—envy—which is sometimes covered with a mask of piety and, by its very nature, rejects the truth. Pilate’s awareness shows that even the judge saw Christ’s innocence, yet he could not stand against the pressure of the crowd. This verse reminds us that envy is not only a sin, but also a deadly force that can make a person an enemy of righteousness and truth.