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Book of Matthew - Chapter 26 - Verse 38

26:38
Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me.

Meaning

When Jesus uttered the words "My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me," he was expressing the depth of his anguish and distress. This verse comes from the Gospel of Matthew, where Jesus is in the Garden of Gethsemane, just before his crucifixion. Jesus knew what was about to unfold, the immense suffering and sacrifice he would endure for the redemption of humanity. His soul was overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death, yet he willingly submitted to the Father's will. By asking his disciples to stay with him and watch, Jesus was seeking companionship and support during this incredibly difficult time. This verse highlights the humanity of Jesus, showing his vulnerability and the weight of the burden he was about to bear for the sake of all mankind.

Theological Overview

In this verse, Jesus expresses deep sorrow and anguish to His disciples, asking them to remain with Him and keep watch. The phrase "even unto death" portrays the intensity of His emotions, indicating the depth of His distress. This statement reveals the humanity of Jesus as He faced the weight of the impending crucifixion and separation from God. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights Jesus' willingness to experience the full range of human emotions, including sorrow and despair, in order to fulfill His mission of redemption. Through this moment of vulnerability, Jesus exemplifies the importance of seeking support and companionship during times of intense suffering. The emphasis on watching with Him also underscores the significance of vigilance and prayer in times of spiritual struggle. Overall, this verse serves as a poignant reminder of Jesus' humanity and the depth of His sacrifice for humanity.

American Standard Version

Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: abide ye here, and watch with me.
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