John Calvin Commentary Matthew 27:5

"And he cast down the pieces of silver into the sanctuary, and departed; and he went away and hanged himself." — Matthew 27:5 (ASV)

And he went away, and strangled himself. This is the price for which Satan sells the allurements by which he flatters wicked men for a time. He throws them into a state of fury, so that, voluntarily cutting themselves off from the hope of salvation, they find no consolation except in death.

Though others would have permitted Judas to enjoy the thirty pieces of silver, by which he had betrayed Christ and his own salvation, he throws them down, and not only deprives himself of their use but, along with the base reward for the death of Christ, also throws away his own life.

Thus, though God does not put forth his hand, wicked men are frustrated in their desires, so that when they have obtained their wishes, they not only deprive themselves of enjoying unsatisfying benefits but even make cords for themselves. But though they are their own executioners by punishing themselves, they do not in any way alleviate or diminish the severity of the wrath of God.