Please explain Matthew 27:9.

Matthew 27:9 states, “Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying, And they took the thirty pieces of silver, the price of Him that was valued…”

This verse must be read carefully to understand its meaning. As it states, the prophet Jeremiah was the speaker. This verse is not recorded in the book of Jeremiah, which he did write.

Because of a similar prophecy found in the book of Zechariah (11:12-13), some believe that the word “Jeremiah” in Matthew 27:9 should have been translated “Zechariah.” However, the original Greek word is “Jeremiah.”

The Bible never contradicts itself (John 10:35). Jeremiah spoke the prophecy. Then, at a later time, Zechariah was inspired to record it.