New Testament · Gospel

Mark 14:32

Betrayal Begins

Then they came to a place called Gethsemane, and Jesus told His disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” Mark 14:32 · Berean Standard Bible
What It Means

Mark 14:32, in plain English

They came to a garden called Gethsemane, and Jesus said, 'Sit here while I go and pray.'

Why it's here

The name means 'olive press' — and that's exactly what this place would be for Jesus. A place of crushing pressure and agonizing decision.

Who's speaking

Jesus speaks to His disciples as they arrive at the garden.

Where it sits in the story

The festive atmosphere of the Passover meal has given way to something heavy and dark. Jesus is about to face the hardest moment of His life — and He does it in prayer.

A Closer Look

The scholarly reading

Gethsemane (Hebrew/Aramaic: gat shemanim, 'oil press') was an olive grove on the Mount of Olives where Jesus retreated for prayer, instructing most disciples to wait while He prayed.

Language and setting

The olive press imagery resonates symbolically: Jesus Himself will be 'pressed' in agonizing prayer, crushed by the weight of the coming passion.

Voice

Mark narrates the arrival at Gethsemane and Jesus' instructions.

Significance

Jesus brings His disciples to the place where the internal battle of the Passion will be fought — not with swords but in prayer, as He confronts the full horror of what lies ahead.

In context

Mark 14:30–34

30“Truly I tell you,” Jesus replied, “this very night, before the rooster crows twice, you will deny Me three times.”

31But Peter kept insisting, “Even if I have to die with You, I will never deny You.” And all the others said the same thing.

32Then they came to a place called Gethsemane, and Jesus told His disciples, “Sit here while I pray.”

33He took with Him Peter, James, and John, and began to be deeply troubled and distressed.

34Then He said to them, “My soul is consumed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch.”

Read all of Mark 14 — A woman anoints Jesus with costly perfume while Judas negotiates his price. The Last Supper, Gethsemane, and Peter's denial unfold in rapid succession.

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