New Testament
Matthew 27:34
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There they offered him wine mixed with gall to drink, but after tasting it, he refused it.
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They gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall: and when he had tasted thereof, he would not drink.
What Matthew 27:34 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus is offered a drink that is a mixture of wine and gall, which is a bitter substance. This was a common practice to dull the pain of those being crucified. However, after tasting it, Jesus chooses not to drink it. This act signifies His willingness to fully experience the suffering of the crucifixion without any numbing effects. By refusing the drink, He demonstrates His commitment to endure the pain and fulfill His mission of salvation. The gall represents bitterness and suffering, and by rejecting it, Jesus embraces the full weight of human suffering. This moment highlights His humanity and the depth of His sacrifice, as He faces the crucifixion with clarity and purpose, rather than seeking relief from the agony that awaits Him.
How to apply Matthew 27:34 to your life
This verse encourages us to face our own challenges and sufferings with courage and determination. Just as Jesus refused to seek comfort in His pain, we can learn to embrace our struggles, trusting that they can lead to growth and deeper faith. It reminds us to be present in our trials.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Crucifixion (Matthew 27:32–44)
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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.
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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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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 27:34 mean?
Matthew 27:34 describes the moment when Jesus is offered a drink mixed with gall during His crucifixion. This mixture was intended to numb pain, but Jesus refuses it, showing His commitment to fully endure the suffering of the cross.
What is the significance of gall in Matthew 27:34?
In Matthew 27:34, gall represents bitterness and suffering. By refusing the drink mixed with gall, Jesus embraces the full weight of human suffering, highlighting His sacrifice and humanity.
Why did Jesus refuse the drink in Matthew 27:34?
Jesus refused the drink offered in Matthew 27:34 to fully experience the pain of crucifixion without any numbing effects. This decision underscores His dedication to His mission of salvation.
What does the drink symbolize in Matthew 27:34?
The drink in Matthew 27:34 symbolizes the temptation to seek comfort in suffering. Jesus' refusal to drink it signifies His willingness to face His trials head-on, reflecting His strength and purpose.
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