A custom (συνηθεια). Old word for intimacy,
intercourse, from συνηθης (συν, ηθος), in N.T. only here,
Will ye therefore that I release? (βουλεσθε ουν απολυσω;). Without the usual ινα before απολυσω, asyndeton, as in Mark 10:36, to be explained either as parataxis or two questions (Robertson, Grammar, p. 430) or as mere omission of ινα (ibid., p. 994). There is contempt and irony in Pilate's use of the phrase "the king of the Jews."