New Testament
Matthew 27:32
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
As they went out, they found a man from Cyrene named Simon, and they forced him to carry Jesus' cross.
Compare translations
And as they came out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name: him they compelled to bear his cross.
What Matthew 27:32 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, as Jesus is led to His crucifixion, the soldiers encounter Simon, a man from Cyrene, who is compelled to carry the cross for Jesus. This moment highlights the physical burden Jesus was enduring and the reality of His suffering. Simon's involvement signifies the unexpected ways people can participate in significant events, even when they are not directly involved. Carrying the cross symbolizes the weight of sin and the sacrifice Jesus was making for humanity. Simon's act of carrying the cross can also be seen as a foreshadowing of the call for all believers to take up their own crosses and follow Christ, embracing the challenges of faith. This moment serves as a reminder of the communal aspect of suffering and the importance of helping others in their times of need.
How to apply Matthew 27:32 to your life
This verse encourages us to be open to helping others, even when it is inconvenient. Just as Simon was called to assist Jesus, we too can support those around us who are struggling. Look for opportunities to bear burdens with others, reflecting Christ's love and compassion in our daily lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Crucifixion (Matthew 27:32–44)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Matthew 27:32
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Matthew 27:32
Related Bible verses
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 27:32 mean?
Matthew 27:32 describes how Simon of Cyrene was forced to carry Jesus' cross as He was led to crucifixion. This moment emphasizes the physical suffering Jesus endured and highlights the unexpected roles people can play in significant events.
Who is Simon of Cyrene in Matthew 27:32?
Simon of Cyrene is a man mentioned in Matthew 27:32 who was compelled by Roman soldiers to carry the cross for Jesus. His involvement illustrates the communal aspect of suffering and the importance of helping others.
What is the significance of carrying the cross in Matthew 27:32?
Carrying the cross in Matthew 27:32 symbolizes the weight of sin and the sacrifice Jesus was making. It also serves as a reminder for believers to embrace their own challenges in faith.
What themes are present in Matthew 27:32?
Key themes in Matthew 27:32 include suffering, sacrifice, community, and discipleship. The verse highlights the importance of supporting others during difficult times.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.