Adam Clarke's Commentary on the Bible - Matthew 22:19
They brought unto him a penny - A denarius: probably the ordinary capitation tax, though the poll tax in the law, Exodus 30:13 , Exodus 30:14 , was half a shekel, about twice as much as the denarius. The Roman denarius had the emperor's image with a proper legend stamped on one side of it. It was not therefore the sacred shekel which was to be paid for the repairs of the temple which was now demanded, but the regular tribute required by the Roman government. read more
Adam Clarke's Commentary on the Bible - Matthew 22:16
The Herodians - For an account of this sect, see the note on Matthew 16:1 . The preceding parable had covered the Pharisees with confusion: when it was ended they went out, not to humble themselves before God, and deprecate the judgments with which they were threatened; but to plot afresh the destruction of their teacher. The depth of their malice appears, In their mode of attack. They had often questioned our Lord on matters concerning religion; and his answers only served to increase... read more