Then Paul answered, What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart? for I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.

ACTS 21:13KJV
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Acts 21:13 (KJV)

What does Acts 21:13 mean?

Acts 21:13 shows Paul telling his friends that he is fully prepared not only to be arrested but even to die in Jerusalem for the sake of Jesus. Paul is responding to their sadness and concern, making it clear that his commitment to Jesus outweighs his fear of suffering or death.

In this verse, Paul is speaking to fellow believers who are upset and begging him not to go to Jerusalem because they fear for his safety. Paul’s words reveal his deep resolve and willingness to face whatever comes, as long as it is for “the name of the Lord Jesus.” The scene highlights both the emotional bond between Paul and his friends and the seriousness of his mission.

The Greek behind Acts 21:13

  • The word for “weep” is κλαίω (klaió), which means to cry or mourn out loud. Paul’s friends are not just quietly sad; their grief is visible and intense, showing how much they care about him.
  • The phrase “to break mine heart” uses the Greek word συνθρύπτω (sunthruptó), meaning to crush or shatter. Paul is saying their emotional pleas are deeply affecting him, almost overwhelming his resolve.
  • The word for “ready” is ἕτοιμος (hetoimos), which means prepared or willing. Paul is not just resigned to what might happen; he is actively prepared for it, showing a deliberate choice rather than passive acceptance.

Why Acts 21:13 matters

  • This verse clears up any idea that Paul was reckless or unaware of the danger; he understands the risks but chooses to go forward anyway out of loyalty to Jesus.
  • Acts 21:13 highlights the real emotional cost of following Jesus, both for Paul and for those who love him, making the story more personal and relatable.
  • The verse connects to the larger story in Acts, where Paul’s journey to Jerusalem marks a turning point leading to his eventual arrest and trials, showing how his faith shapes his actions even in the face of suffering.

Where else these words appear

“ready” Greek G2093 · used in 3 verses

  • 2 Corinthians 12:14 Behold, the third time I am ready to come to you; and I will not be burdensome to you: for I seek not yours, but you: for the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children.
  • 1 Peter 4:5 Who shall give account to him that is ready to judge the quick and the dead.

“weep” Greek G2799 · used in 34 verses

  • Matthew 2:18 In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not.
  • Luke 8:52 And all wept, and bewailed her: but he said, Weep not; she is not dead, but sleepeth.
  • Romans 12:15 Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.

“bound” Greek G1210 · used in 41 verses

  • Matthew 12:29 Or else how can one enter into a strong man's house, and spoil his goods, except he first bind the strong man? and then he will spoil his house.
  • Mark 11:4 And they went their way, and found the colt tied by the door without in a place where two ways met; and they loose him.
  • Acts 12:6 And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison.

“only” Greek G3440 · used in 66 verses

  • Matthew 5:47 And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?
  • Acts 27:10 And said unto them, Sirs, I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt and much damage, not only of the lading and ship, but also of our lives.
  • Galatians 4:18 But it is good to be zealously affected always in a good thing, and not only when I am present with you.