Mark 14:47 (KJV)

What does Mark 14:47 mean?

Mark 14:47 describes how, during Jesus’ arrest, one of the people standing nearby drew a sword and struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear. This moment shows a sudden act of violence as Jesus is being taken by the authorities.

The scene takes place in the Garden of Gethsemane, just after Jesus is betrayed by Judas and a group comes to arrest him. The verse does not name the person who used the sword, but other Gospels identify him as Peter. The servant attacked belonged to the high priest, making the act especially provocative in the tense situation.

The Greek behind Mark 14:47

• "σπάσας" (spasas, "drew"): This word means to draw out, especially a weapon. The Greek here emphasizes a deliberate action, not an accident or a scuffle.
• "ἐπάταξεν" (epataxen, "smote"): This verb often means to strike with force or intent to harm, highlighting the seriousness of the act.
• "ἀφεῖλεν" (apheilen, "cut off"): This word means to take away or remove, showing that the ear was fully severed, not just injured.
• "ὠτίον" (ōtion, "ear"): This term refers specifically to the ear, making clear the nature of the injury.

Why Mark 14:47 matters

• Mark 14:47 clears up that the violence during Jesus’ arrest came from his own followers, not from the arresting party, which adds to the tension and drama of the moment.
• The verse highlights the contrast between Jesus’ teachings and the actions of his followers, setting up Jesus’ response in the following verses.
• This detail connects Mark’s account to the other Gospels, where the story is told with slight differences, helping readers see the fuller picture of what happened during Jesus’ arrest.