Mark 14:34

Mark 14:34 Meaning and Explanation

And saith unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful unto death: tarry ye here, and watch.

King James Version (KJV)

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Jesus tells the three that his soul is sorrowful to the point of death, and asks them to stay and watch.

What Does Mark 14:34 Mean?

Jesus tells the three exactly what he feels: My soul is exceeding sorrowful unto death — sorrow so total it could kill. The words echo the refrain of the psalmist, Why art thou cast down, O my soul? (Psalm 42:5). Then the simple request: tarry ye here, and watch.

The Lord of glory asks three fishermen to keep him company in his agony. He does not seek their counsel, only their nearness — and even that they will fail to give. Yet he asked; he let his sorrow be seen and shared. Honest grief spoken aloud, and friends asked to watch with us, is not weakness of faith. It is the pattern of Christ.

Mark 14:34 in the Original Language

perilypos (περίλυπος), 'exceeding sorrowful' -- surrounded by sorrow, grieved on every side.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mark 14:34

What does Mark 14:34 mean?

Jesus tells the three that his soul is sorrowful to the point of death, and asks them to stay and watch.

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