Bible fact · Direct biblical statement
A coin in a fish's mouth
Jesus told Peter to catch a fish and he would find a coin in its mouth to pay the temple tax for them both. Matthew 17:24–27
Discover why
Collectors of the two-drachma temple tax asked Peter if Jesus paid it. Jesus told him to cast a hook, take the first fish, and find in its mouth a coin to pay for both of them. Matthew 17:24–27
What the Bible does not say
Matthew does not narrate Peter catching the fish; the account ends with Jesus' instruction.
Read the passage
Matthew 17:24–27 WEB
24When they had come to Capernaum, those who collected the didrachma coins came to Peter, and said, “Doesn’t your teacher pay the didrachma?” 25He said, “Yes.” When he came into the house, Jesus anticipated him, saying, “What do you think, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth receive toll or tribute? From their children, or from strangers?” 26Peter said to him, “From strangers.” Jesus said to him, “Therefore the children are exempt. 27But, lest we cause them to stumble, go to the sea, cast a hook, and take up the first fish that comes up. When you have opened its mouth, you will find a stater coin. Take that, and give it to them for me and you.”
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For children
Jesus told Peter he would find a coin in the mouth of the first fish he caught!