A.T. Robertson Commentary John 19:38

"And after these things Joseph of Arimathaea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, asked of Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus: and Pilate gave [him] leave. He came therefore, and took away his body." — John 19:38 (ASV)

But secretly for fear of the Jews (κεκρυμμενος δε δια τον φοβον των Ιουδαιων). Perfect passive participle of κρυπτω. An example of the rulers described in 12:41-43 who through cowardice feared to own their faith in Jesus as the Messiah. But it must be put down to the credit of Joseph that he showed courage in this darkest hour when the majority had lost heart.

That he might take away (ινα αρη). Final clause with ινα and the first aorist active subjunctive of αιρω. Else the body of Jesus might have gone to the potter's field. Pilate gladly consented.