Luke 22:60 (KJV)

What does Luke 22:60 mean?

Luke 22:60 shows Peter denying that he knows anything about Jesus, insisting to the bystander that he does not understand what is being said. As Peter finishes speaking, a rooster crows, marking the moment Jesus had foretold when Peter would deny him three times before the rooster crowed.

In this scene, Peter is outside the high priest’s house, confronted by someone who suspects him of being with Jesus. Peter responds directly to the man, saying, “Man, I know not what thou sayest,” which is a strong denial of any connection or knowledge. The immediate crowing of the rooster signals the fulfillment of Jesus’ earlier warning to Peter, highlighting Peter’s fear and the pressure he felt in that dangerous situation.

The Greek behind Luke 22:60

• ἄνθρωπε (anthrōpe, G444): This word is translated here as “Man,” and it is a direct, everyday way to address someone, showing Peter’s bluntness and perhaps his frustration or desperation in the moment.
• οἶδα (oida, G1492): This verb means “I know,” and Peter uses it to firmly deny any knowledge, not just of Jesus, but of what the accuser is even talking about, making his denial as complete as possible.
• ἀλέκτωρ (alektōr, G220): This is the word for “cock” or “rooster.” The crowing of the rooster is a specific detail Jesus mentioned earlier, and its immediate occurrence here underlines the accuracy of Jesus’ prediction and the significance of the moment.

Why Luke 22:60 matters

• Luke 22:60 makes clear that Peter’s denial was not just a slip but a strong and deliberate statement, using direct language to distance himself from Jesus.
• The verse connects directly to Jesus’ earlier prophecy, showing that Jesus’ words come true exactly as he said, which adds weight to his authority and foreknowledge.
• This moment is a turning point for Peter, setting up his deep regret and the emotional impact that follows, and it helps readers understand the human weakness even among Jesus’ closest followers.