Charles Ellicott Commentary Luke 23:16

"I will therefore chastise him, and release him." — Luke 23:16 (ASV)

I will therefore chastise him.—The primary meaning of the word was to correct as children are corrected, and by extension to use the rod, as in Proverbs 19:18; Proverbs 29:17. As used here, it implied the Roman punishment of scourging.

Pilate was here, as throughout, halting between two opinions, convinced of the innocence of the Accused, yet afraid to oppose the people. Would it not be enough, he thought, that they should see Him treated as guilty of a minor offense? Would they not accept His release as part of the ceremonial of the day?