Definition: And he went forward a little, and fell on the ground, and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this passage from Mark 14:35. It’s a really significant moment in Jesus’s ministry and speaks to his impending sacrifice. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Jesus is walking through a garden while the disciples are with him. Suddenly, he starts to feel pain in his side – a sign of betrayal. He then falls to the ground, seemingly overwhelmed by this pain. What's Happening - It’s About Preparation for His Death: He’s not just suffering; he’s praying that the time of Jesus’s death might be shortened. Here’s what it means: “If it were possible…” : This is a crucial part. He's acknowledging that his suffering is immense, and he’s looking for a way to lessen it. “The hour might pass from him” : This suggests he wants the events surrounding his death to be shorter or less painful. It’s about minimizing the disruption and suffering he will endure. Why Does He Do This? This is a very powerful expression of his anticipation and understanding of what's coming. It shows: He knew it was coming: The disciples were aware that something significant was about to happen – Jesus’s death. He felt the weight of it: He understood the immense pain and consequences of his sacrifice. He was anticipating a peaceful end: He wasn't just passively accepting his fate; he was actively seeking a way to make things easier for himself. It's a Moment of Intense Preparation: This verse is often interpreted as a sign that Jesus was deeply aware of the impending events surrounding his death, and he was preparing himself mentally and spiritually for them. It’s a moment of intense contemplation and longing. Important Note: The exact meaning of this passage has been debated by theologians for centuries. Some see it as a subtle plea for mercy, while others view it as a powerful expression of his understanding of his own fate. --- Do you want to explore any aspect of this verse in more detail? For example, we could talk about: The context of the story – why is he doing this? Different interpretations of the verse's meaning?