Mark 14:20 (KJV)

What does Mark 14:20 mean?

Mark 14:20 records Jesus responding to his disciples by saying that one of the twelve closest followers, who is sharing the meal and dipping bread with him in the same dish, will betray him. This statement narrows down the betrayer to someone within his innermost group, making the warning deeply personal.

In this scene, Jesus is at the table with his twelve disciples during the Passover meal. The disciples are troubled after Jesus says one of them will betray him, and they ask who it is. Jesus’ answer points out that the betrayer is not an outsider but one of those sharing the meal, highlighting the closeness and trust within the group and the pain of such a betrayal.

The Greek behind Mark 14:20

• "dippeth" (βάπτεται, baptetai): This word means to dip or immerse. In this context, it refers to sharing food from the same dish, a sign of fellowship and closeness, which makes the betrayal even more shocking.
• "dish" (τρυβλίον, tryblion): This word refers to a common dish or bowl used at meals. Sharing from the same dish was a sign of intimate fellowship, so Jesus’ statement emphasizes the depth of the coming betrayal.

Why Mark 14:20 matters

• Mark 14:20 clarifies that the betrayer is not just any follower but one of the twelve, intensifying the sense of shock and sorrow among the disciples.
• The verse highlights the theme of betrayal coming from within, which is a key moment in the story of Jesus’ final hours.
• By mentioning the shared dish, Mark 14:20 underscores the intimacy of the group and the gravity of the betrayal, helping readers understand why this moment is so emotionally charged.