Joh 19:24 | RWP | e4.org | Let us not rend it ( μη σχισωμεν αυτον ). Μη with first aorist active volitive subjunctive of σχιζω , to split. It was too valuable to ruin. Cast lots ( λαχωμεν ). Second aorist active volitive subjunctive of λαγχανω . The usual meaning is to obtain by lot ( ; ). Field ( Ot. Norv . 72) holds that no example has been found where it means "cast lots" as here, but Thayer cites Isocrates , p. 144b and Diod . 4, 63. John here quotes with the usual formula (LXX verbatim) and finds a fulfilment here. The enemies of the Lord's Anointed treated him as already dead (Westcott) and so cast lots ( ελαβον κληρον , the common phrase as in ).

‏ John 19:24

Let us not rend it ( μη σχισωμεν αυτον ). Μη with first aorist active volitive subjunctive of σχιζω, to split. It was too valuable to ruin.

Cast lots ( λαχωμεν ). Second aorist active volitive subjunctive of λαγχανω. The usual meaning is to obtain by lot (Lu 1:9; Ac 1:17). Field (Ot. Norv. 72) holds that no example has been found where it means "cast lots" as here, but Thayer cites Isocrates, p. 144b and Diod. 4, 63. John here quotes with the usual formula Ps 22:18 (LXX verbatim) and finds a fulfilment here. The enemies of the Lord's Anointed treated him as already dead (Westcott) and so cast lots ( ελαβον κληρον, the common phrase as in Mt 27:35).