Matthew 20:4 - Exposition

Ye also; implying that he had already set some to work at fixed wages. Whatsoever is right ( δι ì καιον ); just and fair. He offers these no definite sum as remuneration, assuring them only that he will deal equitably with them; i . e . doubtless, according to their view, that he will give them three quarters of a day's wages, paying them pro rata . But at the end he treats them much more generously. Lightfoot notes that the Talmudists had tracts on the payment and regulation of labourers, and in their canons distinguished between being hired for a day and for some hours. They went their way, quite satisfied to leave their remuneration to the householder, with whom probably they were acquainted.