New Testament
Matthew 26:38
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He said to them, "My soul is very sorrowful, even to the point of death. Stay here and watch with me."
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Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me.
What Matthew 26:38 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus expresses deep emotional pain as he faces his impending crucifixion. He describes his sorrow as overwhelming, likening it to a feeling that could lead to death. This moment occurs in the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus seeks the support of his disciples. He asks them to stay awake and keep watch with him, highlighting his need for companionship during this agonizing time. This plea reveals the human side of Jesus, showing that even he experienced profound distress and loneliness. It emphasizes the importance of being present for others in their times of need, as well as the reality of facing difficult moments in life. Jesus' vulnerability invites us to acknowledge our own struggles and the value of seeking support from those around us.
How to apply Matthew 26:38 to your life
When facing difficult times, it's important to reach out to friends and loved ones for support. Just as Jesus sought companionship in his sorrow, we should not hesitate to share our burdens with others. Being present for someone in distress can make a significant difference in their experience.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Prayer in Gethsemane (Matthew 26:36–46)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 26:38 mean?
Matthew 26:38 captures Jesus expressing profound sorrow as he anticipates his crucifixion. He shares his emotional pain with his disciples, asking them to stay awake and support him during this difficult moment.
What is the significance of Jesus' sorrow in Matthew 26:38?
Jesus' sorrow in Matthew 26:38 highlights his humanity and vulnerability. It shows that even he experienced deep emotional distress, emphasizing the importance of companionship and support during challenging times.
What does 'stay here and watch with me' mean in Matthew 26:38?
In Matthew 26:38, when Jesus says 'stay here and watch with me,' he is asking his disciples to be present with him in his time of need. This request underscores the value of being there for others during their struggles.
Why did Jesus feel sorrowful in Matthew 26:38?
Jesus felt sorrowful in Matthew 26:38 because he was facing the reality of his impending crucifixion. His emotional pain reflects the weight of the sacrifice he was about to make for humanity.
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