After crucifying Jesus, four soldiers divide his garments into four shares. His tunic is seamless, so rather than tear it they cast lots to decide who will receive it. John explicitly quotes Psalm 22:18.
Jesus in Context
The Soldiers Divide Jesus' Garments and Cast Lots
The soldiers' division of Jesus' clothing reflects a practical privilege of executioners and, for John, precisely fulfills Psalm 22:18 when they cast lots for the seamless tunic.
Introduction
Historical and Cultural Context
The clothing of an executed person could become spoil for those carrying out the execution. John's chiton is an inner garment or tunic, here described as woven in one piece from the top. Dividing it physically would destroy much of its value, making the soldiers' decision to cast lots practical. Casting lots was a familiar ancient method of making a selection when human choice was to be removed or randomized.
Why It Matters
The material details make the scriptural correspondence unusually concrete. The soldiers are acting for ordinary practical reasons, not attempting to fulfill prophecy.
John nevertheless sees their division of garments and casting of lots as fulfillment of the righteous sufferer's words in Psalm 22.