THEOSISAugustine of Hippo
They were unwilling to relinquish their earthly dominion when they crucified Christ, descending instead into the depths of earthly desires. What do these depths signify? They are the carnal cravings of this world. It is far better to traverse the earth than to become ensnared by its temptations. For anyone who covets worldly possessions for his salvation is caught in those depths; by prioritizing earthly desires, he burdens himself and thus places his soul beneath the earth.
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Consequently, out of fear of losing their worldly domain, they exclaimed, “What will happen to the Lord Jesus Christ?” as they observed the multitude that followed Him, drawn by His miracles. They feared that if He were allowed to live, the Romans would come and seize both their territory and their people (John 11:48). They were afraid of losing their land and consequently fell into ruin: the misfortune they dreaded materialized. Their decision to kill Christ was driven by the desire to preserve their land, yet through His death, they ultimately forfeited it. For when Christ was crucified, the Lord had warned them, "The kingdom shall be taken from you and given to a nation that bears fruit" (Matt. 21:43). As a result, they faced significant trials and persecutions.
They were overrun by Roman emperors and the rulers of nations, expelled from the very location of Christ’s crucifixion, which is now home to countless Christian worshipers. Today, that place is devoid of Jews, cleansed from those who opposed Christ, and filled with His devotees. Indeed, they lost that sacred space due to their actions against Christ, whom they killed in a misguided attempt to protect their territory. Thus, they shall find themselves in the lower realms of the earth.