And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, which said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And he went out, and wept bitterly.
MATTHEW 26:75KJVWhat does Matthew 26:75 mean?
Matthew 26:75 describes the moment when Peter suddenly remembers that Jesus had predicted he would deny knowing Him three times before the rooster crowed. Realizing he has done exactly what Jesus said, Peter leaves the place and breaks down in deep, bitter weeping.
This verse takes place just after Peter’s third denial of Jesus in the courtyard during Jesus’ trial. Peter is one of Jesus’ closest followers, and the verse highlights his shock and grief as he recognizes his failure to stand by Jesus, just as Jesus had warned him earlier that night.
The Greek behind Matthew 26:75
- ἐμνήσθη (emnēsthē, "remembered"): This word means more than just recalling a fact; it often carries the sense of something suddenly coming to mind with emotional weight, which fits Peter’s strong reaction.
- ἔξω (exō, "out") and ἐξελθὼν (exelthōn, "went out"): The use of both words emphasizes Peter’s physical departure from the scene, underlining his need to separate himself after realizing what he had done.
- ἔκλαυσεν πικρῶς (eklausen pikrōs, "wept bitterly"): The Greek word πικρῶς (pikrōs) means "bitterly" or "with intense pain," showing that Peter’s sorrow was not just sadness but deep anguish.
Why Matthew 26:75 matters
- Matthew 26:75 clears up any idea that Peter’s denial was casual or unfeeling; the verse shows his immediate and overwhelming remorse.
- The verse connects back to Jesus’ earlier warning, showing that Jesus’ words were fulfilled exactly and highlighting His foreknowledge.
- This moment sets up Peter’s later restoration and leadership, showing that even those closest to Jesus can fail but also deeply repent.