The Greek word hidrṓs, represented by G2402, denotes perspiration or sweat. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, making its sole appearance highly significant.
The single use of G2402 occurs in a moment of profound anguish in the life of Christ. In Luke 22:44, while being in an agony G74, Jesus prayed G4336 more earnestly. The text describes that his sweat G2402 became like great drops G2361 of blood G129 falling down to the ground G1093. This verse powerfully illustrates the physical toll of his spiritual struggle before his crucifixion.
Several related words from its only context help illuminate the meaning of G2402:
- G74 agōnía (agony): This word describes the state of "a struggle... i.e. (figuratively) anguish" that produced the sweat Luke 22:44.
- G129 haîma (blood): The sweat is compared to blood, a substance which the Bible connects to "the atoning blood of Christ." This link is seen elsewhere, such as in the concept of redemption through his blood Ephesians 1:7.
- G2361 thrómbos (great drop): This specifies the form of the sweat, literally meaning "a clot," emphasizing the thickness and volume of the perspiration Luke 22:44.
The theological weight of G2402 is concentrated in its single appearance.
- The Depth of Christ's Suffering: The word vividly portrays the intensity of Jesus's struggle. His agony G74 was so great that it manifested physically as sweat like blood G129, showing the profound weight he bore while praying Luke 22:44.
- Foreshadowing the Atonement: The comparison of sweat to blood serves as a direct prelude to the crucifixion. It connects his internal anguish in the garden to the physical act of shedding his blood for redemption, as described in passages about being washed from sin in his blood Revelation 1:5.
- Embodiment of Humanity and Divinity: The event captures the full humanity of Christ in a moment of extreme physical distress, while simultaneously occurring in a context of divine purpose as he prayed earnestly to the Father Luke 22:44.
In summary, hidrṓs G2402, while appearing only once, offers a profound insight into the suffering of Christ. Its usage in Luke 22:44 is not merely descriptive of sweat but serves as a powerful illustration of his agony G74, his humanity, and the immense spiritual battle he faced. Linked with terms like blood G129 and great drops G2361, it marks the beginning of his final atoning sacrifice.
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