And began to salute him, Hail, King of the Jews!

MARK 15:18KJV
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Mark 15:18 (KJV)

What does Mark 15:18 mean?

Mark 15:18 describes how the Roman soldiers mocked Jesus by greeting Him with the words, “Hail, King of the Jews!” They were not honoring Him, but instead were making fun of the claim that He was a king.

In this scene, Jesus is in the custody of Roman soldiers after being condemned by Pilate. The soldiers are addressing Jesus directly, using a formal greeting that would normally be reserved for royalty. Their words are meant to ridicule Jesus, highlighting the contrast between His suffering and the title “King of the Jews” that had been used to accuse Him.

The Greek behind Mark 15:18

  • “Salute” (ἀσπάζομαι, aspazomai): This Greek word means to greet or welcome someone, often with respect. Here, it is used ironically, as the soldiers pretend to honor Jesus while actually mocking Him.
  • “Hail” (χαίρε, chaire): This is a common greeting meaning “rejoice” or “greetings,” but in this context, it mimics the way subjects would address a king or emperor. The soldiers use it sarcastically, emphasizing their mockery.
  • “King” (βασιλεύς, basileus): This word means “king” or “ruler.” The soldiers call Jesus “King of the Jews” to mock the charge brought against Him, not because they believe He is a king.
  • “Jews” (Ἰουδαῖος, Ioudaios): This refers to the Jewish people. The phrase “King of the Jews” was the accusation that led to Jesus’ crucifixion, and the soldiers use it here to ridicule both Jesus and the charge itself.

Why Mark 15:18 matters

  • Mark 15:18 helps clarify that the soldiers’ actions were meant as mockery, not genuine respect, which underscores the humiliation Jesus endured before His crucifixion.
  • The verse connects directly to the charge against Jesus—being called “King of the Jews”—and shows how this title was twisted into a tool for ridicule.
  • Understanding the sarcasm and irony in the soldiers’ greeting gives deeper insight into the emotional and psychological suffering Jesus experienced in addition to physical pain.

Where else these words appear

“salute” Greek G782 · used in 49 verses

  • Matthew 5:47 And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?
  • Romans 16:9 Salute Urbane, our helper in Christ, and Stachys my beloved.
  • Philippians 4:22 All the saints salute you, chiefly they that are of Caesar's household.

“Hail” Greek G5463 · used in 68 verses

  • Matthew 2:10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.
  • John 14:28 Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I.
  • 2 Corinthians 7:13 Therefore we were comforted in your comfort: yea, and exceedingly the more joyed we for the joy of Titus, because his spirit was refreshed by you all.

“began” Greek G756 · used in 84 verses

  • Matthew 4:17 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
  • Mark 10:41 And when the ten heard it, they began to be much displeased with James and John.
  • Luke 14:29 Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him,

“King” Greek G935 · used in 107 verses

  • Matthew 1:6 And Jesse begat David the king; and David the king begat Solomon of her that had been the wife of Urias;
  • Luke 14:31 Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand?
  • Acts 26:7 Unto which promise our twelve tribes, instantly serving God day and night, hope to come. For which hope's sake, king Agrippa, I am accused of the Jews.