# Father, forgive them The word "them" refers to those who were crucifying Jesus. # Father This is an important title for God. # for they do not know what they are doing The Roman soldiers did not know that they were crucifying the Son of God. Alternate translation: "because they do not understand what they are doing." # they cast lots The soldiers participated in a type of gambling. Alternate translation: "they gambled" # cast lots, dividing up his garments "cast lots to decide who among the soldiers would take home each piece of Jesus's clothing"