A.T. Robertson Commentary Matthew 27:41

"In like manner also the chief priests mocking [him], with the scribes and elders, said," — Matthew 27:41 (ASV)

The chief priests mocking (ο αρχιερεις εμπαιζοντες). The Sanhedrin in fact, for "the scribes and elders" are included. The word for mocking (εμπαιζοντεσ, εν, and παιζω, from παις, child) means acting like silly children who love to guy one another. These grave and reverend seniors had already given vent to their glee at the condemnation of Jesus by themselves (Matthew 26:67f.).