Mark 14:26

And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives.

And {G2532} when they had sung an hymn {G5214}, they went out {G1831} into {G1519} the mount {G3735} of Olives {G1636}.

After singing the Hallel, they went out to the Mount of Olives.

And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.

And when they had sung a hymn, they went out unto the mount of Olives.

Commentary

Mark 14:26 KJV describes a poignant moment immediately following the institution of the Lord's Supper, as Jesus and His disciples prepare to leave the upper room for the Mount of Olives.

Context

This verse marks a critical transition in the passion narrative. Having just shared the Passover meal and instituted the new covenant meal, Jesus and His disciples conclude their time together with worship. They are about to embark on the solemn journey to the Garden of Gethsemane on the Mount of Olives, where Jesus will face His agony and subsequent betrayal.

Key Themes

  • Worship Amidst Suffering: The act of singing a hymn before going out to face arrest, trial, and crucifixion highlights Jesus' unwavering faith and the disciples' participation in a moment of profound spiritual significance. It demonstrates that worship can be a source of strength and comfort even in the darkest hours.
  • Fulfillment of Tradition: It is widely believed that the "hymn" they sang was part of the Hallel Psalms (Psalms 113-118), traditionally recited or sung during the Passover celebration. This reinforces the Jewish context of the Last Supper and Jesus' adherence to the customs of His people, even as He established new traditions.
  • Intentional Movement Towards Destiny: Their departure to the Mount of Olives was not random. It was a deliberate step towards the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. The Mount of Olives itself holds prophetic significance (Zechariah 14:4), and Jesus often taught there, making it a familiar and symbolic place for His final hours of freedom.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated as "hymn" is hymneo (often associated with hymnos), meaning "to sing praises" or "to sing a hymn." This term emphasizes a song of adoration and praise to God, rather than a lament or a simple tune. The act of singing a "hymn" underscores the spiritual nature of their gathering and their recognition of God's sovereignty, even in anticipation of dire events.

Practical Application

Mark 14:26 offers several timeless lessons for believers today:

  • The Power of Worship: Just as Jesus and His disciples found strength in worship before facing immense trials, we too can turn to praise and song as a means of connecting with God and finding peace, even when circumstances are challenging.
  • Facing Adversity with Faith: Jesus' deliberate movement towards the Mount of Olives, knowing what awaited Him, exemplifies courageous obedience and trust in God's plan. We are called to face our own difficulties with similar faith and resolve.
  • The Importance of Spiritual Discipline: The shared meal and subsequent hymn highlight the importance of spiritual disciplines like communion and corporate worship in preparing us for life's inevitable struggles.
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Cross-References

  • Matthew 26:30 (5 votes)

    And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives.

  • Luke 22:39 (4 votes)

    ¶ And he came out, and went, as he was wont, to the mount of Olives; and his disciples also followed him.

  • Matthew 21:1 (0 votes)

    ¶ And when they drew nigh unto Jerusalem, and were come to Bethphage, unto the mount of Olives, then sent Jesus two disciples,

  • Judges 18:1 (0 votes)

    ¶ In those days [there was] no king in Israel: and in those days the tribe of the Danites sought them an inheritance to dwell in; for unto that day [all their] inheritance had not fallen unto them among the tribes of Israel.

  • Judges 18:4 (0 votes)

    And he said unto them, Thus and thus dealeth Micah with me, and hath hired me, and I am his priest.

  • Acts 16:25 (0 votes)

    ¶ And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.

  • 1 Corinthians 14:15 (0 votes)

    ¶ What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.