“Amen, I say to you, this very night before the cock crows, you will deny me three times.”
Jesus spent one night in the garden of Gethsemane after the Last Supper and prior to his arrest by the mob.
He went there to pray accompanied by St. Peter, St. John and St. James.
Mosaic in San Marco, Venice (1200)
His state of mind was confused and ambivalent.
He prayed three times.
It appears to be a discussion with his Father, but it is in essence a discussion with himself.
Before committing to the Sacrifice.
Agony in the Garden refers to this state of mind.
Mosaic in San Marco, Venice (1200) – Detail
Jesus is sad and anxious.
He is not ready yet for the Sacrifice.
“My Father, let this Cup pass by me”.
Buoninsegna (1308)
Human, all too human!
This is the Greatest moment in the life of Jesus as a Human!
He openly admits that his desire for life is greater than his willingness to save humanity.
“My Father, if it is not possible that this cup pass without my drinking it, your will be done!”
Giovanni Bellini (1495)
He asked his pupils to stay awake and pray, but every time he checked up on them they were asleep.
“The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak”
Andrea Mantegna (1460)
Boticcelli (1500)
El Greco (1595)
“Jesus answered him, “Friend, do what you have come for.” Then stepping forward they laid hands on Jesus and arrested him.”
(All quotations from the Gospel by Mathew)