Book of Luke - Chapter 22 - Verse 50

When Jesus was arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane, one of his disciples, Simon Peter, attempted to defend him by striking the servant of the high priest and cutting off his right ear. This incident is significant because it illustrates Peter's loyalty and willingness to protect Jesus, even at the risk of his own life. It also highlights the violent nature of the events that were about to unfold, leading to Jesus' crucifixion. In response to Peter's actions, Jesus miraculously healed the servant's ear, demonstrating his message of peace and forgiveness. This verse serves as a reminder of the conflicts and sacrifices that Jesus' followers faced during his ministry, as well as the power of his teachings to overcome violence with compassion.

One of the most significant theological interpretations of the verse 'And one of them smote the servant of the high priest, and cut off his right ear.' can be found in the Gospel of John (18:10). In this account, the disciple Peter is identified as the one who smote the servant of the high priest. This event underscores Peter's impulsive nature and his willingness to take action in defense of Jesus, even if it means resorting to violence. However, Jesus rebukes Peter and heals the servant's ear, demonstrating his commitment to peace and nonviolence. This episode highlights the tension between human instinct and divine purpose, as well as the importance of following the teachings of Jesus, even in moments of crisis. Word studies on 'smote' and 'cut off' can provide further insight into the violent nature of the incident and the significance of the servant's right ear being injured. Overall, this verse offers a rich opportunity for reflection on themes of loyalty, violence, and the transformative power of Jesus' teachings.