And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground.

LUKE 22:44KJV
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Luke 22:44 (KJV)

What does Luke 22:44 mean?

Luke 22:44 describes Jesus in deep anguish as he prays, so intensely that his sweat falls to the ground like large drops of blood. This verse highlights the extreme emotional and physical stress Jesus experienced as he faced his coming suffering.

In this scene, Jesus is alone in the Garden of Gethsemane, praying to God the Father just before his arrest. The verse uses vivid language to show how deeply troubled Jesus was, emphasizing both his humanity and the seriousness of what he was about to endure. Luke, the author, draws attention to the physical effects of Jesus’ agony, making it clear how real and overwhelming this moment was for him.

The Greek behind Luke 22:44

  • ἀγωνία (agōnia): This Greek word, translated as "agony," refers to intense struggle, distress, or severe emotional conflict. It paints a picture of Jesus wrestling with overwhelming fear and sorrow.
  • ἐκτενέστερον (ektenesteron): Translated as "more earnestly," this word means to pray with even greater intensity or fervor. It shows that, despite his agony, Jesus pressed even harder into prayer.
  • θρὼμβοι (thromboi): The word for "drops" is used here to describe something thick or clotted, like large drops of blood. This detail underlines the extraordinary physical response to Jesus’ emotional state.

Why Luke 22:44 matters

  • This verse clears up any idea that Jesus faced his suffering without struggle; it shows he experienced real human fear and distress.
  • The vivid description of Jesus’ sweat "like drops of blood" emphasizes the seriousness of his sacrifice and the weight of what he was about to do.
  • Luke’s account connects Jesus’ prayer and suffering directly to his obedience and mission, helping readers understand the depth of his commitment.

Where else these words appear

“were” Greek G5616 · used in 34 verses

  • Matthew 3:16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:
  • Luke 9:14 For they were about five thousand men. And he said to his disciples, Make them sit down by fifties in a company.
  • Acts 2:3 And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.

“down” Greek G2597 · used in 80 verses

  • Matthew 3:16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:
  • Luke 19:6 And he made haste, and came down, and received him joyfully.
  • Acts 10:21 Then Peter went down to the men which were sent unto him from Cornelius; and said, Behold, I am he whom ye seek: what is the cause wherefore ye are come?

“prayed” Greek G4336 · used in 82 verses

  • Matthew 5:44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
  • Luke 5:16 And he withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed.
  • Acts 20:36 And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all.

“blood” Greek G129 · used in 92 verses

  • Matthew 16:17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.
  • Acts 17:26 And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;
  • Hebrews 10:4 For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins.