Mark 14:65
Then some of them began to spit on Him. They blindfolded Him, struck Him with their fists, and said to Him, "Prophesy!" And the officers received Him with slaps in His face.
Then some began to spit on Him
The act of spitting in the ancient world was a profound gesture of contempt and humiliation. In the Greek, the word "ἐμπτύω" (emptyō) is used, which conveys a sense of disdain and rejection. This act fulfilled the prophecy in Isaiah 50:6, where the Suffering Servant is described as enduring such shame. Spitting on Jesus was not only a physical assault but a symbolic rejection of His divine authority and messianic identity.

to blindfold Him
The Greek word "περιτίθημι" (peritithēmi) means to place around or cover. Blindfolding Jesus was an act of mockery, stripping Him of His dignity and treating Him as a common criminal. This action also symbolizes spiritual blindness, as those who did this were unable to see the truth of who Jesus was. It highlights the irony that the Light of the World was being shrouded in darkness by those who could not perceive His true nature.

and to strike Him with their fists
The phrase "καὶ ἐκολάφισαν αὐτόν" (kai ekolaphisan auton) uses the verb "κολαφίζω" (kolaphizō), meaning to strike with a fist. This brutal act of violence was a fulfillment of the prophecy in Micah 5:1, where the ruler of Israel is struck on the cheek. It underscores the physical suffering Jesus endured and the depth of human sinfulness that would lead to such cruelty against the innocent Son of God.

and to say to Him, 'Prophesy!'
The demand for Jesus to prophesy was a taunt, mocking His role as a prophet. The Greek word "προφήτευε" (prophēteue) is an imperative, a command for Jesus to demonstrate His prophetic ability. This mockery is deeply ironic, as Jesus had already prophesied His own suffering and death (Mark 8:31, 9:31, 10:33-34). The mockers were unwittingly fulfilling His prophecies even as they ridiculed Him.

And the officers received Him with slaps in His face
The term "ὑπηρέται" (hypēretai) refers to the officers or servants, likely members of the temple guard. The Greek "ῥαπίσμασιν" (rhapismasin) means slaps or blows, indicating a continued assault on Jesus' dignity. This treatment by the officers, who were supposed to uphold justice, highlights the miscarriage of justice that Jesus faced. It also fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah 53:3, where the Messiah is described as despised and rejected by men.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Jesus Christ
The central figure of the New Testament, who is being mocked and abused in this passage. This event takes place during His trial before the Sanhedrin.

2. The Sanhedrin
The Jewish council that held trials for religious matters. They are responsible for the proceedings against Jesus.

3. The Officers
These are the temple guards or officers who are carrying out the physical abuse against Jesus.

4. The Mockers
Unspecified individuals who are participating in the abuse by spitting, blindfolding, and striking Jesus.

5. Jerusalem
The city where these events are taking place, specifically in the high priest's courtyard.
Teaching Points
The Fulfillment of Prophecy
Jesus' suffering was foretold in the Old Testament, demonstrating the divine plan and purpose in His sacrifice.

The Reality of Persecution
Believers should be prepared for persecution and mockery, as Jesus Himself endured such treatment.

Responding to Injustice
Jesus' response to His abusers was one of silence and submission to God's will, teaching us to trust in God's justice.

The Depth of Christ's Love
The willingness of Jesus to endure such humiliation and pain underscores the depth of His love for humanity.

The Cost of Discipleship
Following Jesus may involve suffering and sacrifice, but it is part of the Christian journey.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the fulfillment of prophecy in Jesus' suffering strengthen your faith in the reliability of Scripture?

2. In what ways can you prepare yourself to face mockery or persecution for your faith, following Jesus' example?

3. How can Jesus' response to His abusers inform your own reactions to injustice or mistreatment?

4. Reflect on the depth of Christ's love as demonstrated in this passage. How does this impact your relationship with Him?

5. What are some practical ways you can embrace the cost of discipleship in your daily life, inspired by Jesus' example?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Isaiah 50:6
This prophecy speaks of the suffering servant who offers His back to those who beat Him and His cheeks to those who pull out His beard, not hiding His face from mocking and spitting. This connection highlights the fulfillment of prophecy in Jesus' suffering.

Luke 22:63-65
This passage provides a parallel account of the mocking and beating of Jesus, emphasizing the consistency of the Gospel accounts.

1 Peter 2:23
This verse speaks of Jesus' response to suffering, highlighting His patience and trust in God, which serves as a model for believers.
Peter's FallR. Green Mark 14:27-31, 66-72
Heaven's Righteous King At Earth's Unrighteous Judgment-SeatR. Green Mark 14:53-65; 15:1-5
First Trial of JesusE. Johnson Mark 14:53-65
Jesus At the Bar of JudaismA.F. Muir Mark 14:53-65
The Denial by PeterJ.J. Given Mark 14:53-72
Peter Denying ChristA.F. Muir Mark 14:54, 66-72
Danger of Being Attracted by the World's WaysCuyler.Mark 14:62-65
Rejection of Evidence Concerning ChristMark Hopkins, D. D.Mark 14:62-65
The Value of Christ's Oath Before PilateMark Hopkins, D. D.Mark 14:62-65
People
James, Jesus, John, Judas, Peter, Simon
Places
Bethany, Galilee, Gethsemane, Jerusalem, Mount of Olives
Topics
Beat, Blindfold, Blindfolded, Blows, Buffet, Captains, Charge, Cover, Covering, Crying, Face, Fists, Guards, Hands, Officers, Open, Palms, Prophesy, Prophet, Prove, Received, Saying, Servants, Shame, Slaps, Spit, Strike, Striking, Struck, Thereupon
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Mark 14:65

     1670   symbols
     2570   Christ, suffering
     5865   gestures
     5893   insults
     8782   mockery
     8817   ridicule, objects of

Mark 14:53-65

     5593   trial

Mark 14:55-65

     2585   Christ, trial

Mark 14:55-72

     5879   humiliation

Mark 14:58-65

     7565   Sanhedrin

Mark 14:61-72

     8712   denial of Christ

Mark 14:64-65

     2036   Christ, humility

Mark 14:65-67

     5150   face

Library
July 28 Evening
Let your requests be made known unto God.--PHIL. 4:6. Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt.--There was given to me a thorn in the flesh. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities. I poured out my complaint before him; I shewed
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

July 18 Evening
She hath done what she could.--MARK 14:8. This poor widow hath cast in more than they all.--Whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward.--If there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not. Let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.--If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, and one of you
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

February 7 Evening
Jesus . . . was moved with compassion toward them.--MATT. 14:14. Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and for ever.--We have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.--Who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way.--He cometh, and findeth them sleeping, and saith unto Peter, Simon, sleepest thou? couldest not thou watch one hour? Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

'Is it I?'
'Is it I?'--Mark xiv. 19 The scene shows that Judas had not as yet drawn any suspicion on himself. Here the Apostles seem to be higher than their ordinary stature; for they do not take to questioning one another, or even to protest, 'No!' but to questioning Christ. I. The solemn prophecy. It seems strange at first sight that our Lord should have introduced such thoughts then, disturbing the sweet repose of that hallowed hour. But the terrible fact of the betrayal was naturally suggested by the emblems
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Sleeping Apostle
'Simon, sleepest thou!'--Mark xiv. 37 It is a very old Christian tradition that this Gospel is in some sense the Apostle Peter's. There are not many features in the Gospel itself which can be relied on as confirming this idea. Perhaps one such may be found in this plaintive remonstrance, which is only preserved for us here. Matthew's Gospel, indeed, tells us that the rebuke was addressed to Peter, but blunts the sharp point of it as directed to him, by throwing it into the plural, as if spoken to
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

A Secret Rendezvous
'And the first day of unleavened bread, when they killed the pastorer, His disciples said unto Him, Where wilt Thou that we go and prepare that Thou mayest eat the passover? 13. And He sendeth forth two of His disciples, and saith unto them, Go ye into the city, and there shall meet you a man bearing a pitcher of water: follow him. 14. And wheresoever he shall go in, say ye to the goodman of the house, The Master saith, Where is the guestchamber, where I shall eat the passover with My disciples?
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The New Passover
'And the first day of unleavened bread, when they killed the Passover, the disciples said unto Him, Where wilt Thou that we go and prepare that Thou mayest eat the Passover? 13. And He sendeth forth two of His disciples, and saith unto them, Go ye into the city, and there shall meet you a man bearing a pitcher of water: follow him. 14. And wheresoever he shall go in, say ye to the goodman of the house, The Master saith, Where is the guestchamber, where I shall eat the Passover with My disciples?
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

'Strong Crying and Tears'
'And they came to a place which was named Gethsemane: and He saith to His disciples, Sit ye here, while I shall pray. 33. And He taketh with Him Peter and James and John, and began to be sore amazed, and to be very heavy; 34. And saith onto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful unto death: tarry ye here, and watch. 35. And He went forward a little, and fell on the ground, and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from Him. 36. And He said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Captive Christ and the Circle Round Him
'And immediately, while He yet spake, cometh Judas, one of the twelve, and with him a great multitude with swords and staves, from the chief priests and the scribes and the elders. 44. And he that betrayed Him had given them a token, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is He; take Him, and lead Him away safely. 45. And as soon as he was come, he goeth straightway to Him, and saith, Master, Master; and kissed Him. 46. And they laid their hands on Him, and took Him. 47. And one of them that
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Condemnation which Condemns the Judges
'And the chief priests and all the council sought for witness against Jesus to put Him to death; and found none. 56. For many bare false witness against Him, but their witness agreed not together. 57. And there arose certain, and bare false witness against Him, saying, 58. We heard Him say, I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and within three days I will build another made without hands. 59. But neither so did their witness agree together. 60. And the high priest stood up in their
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Alabaster Box
'And Jesus said, Let her alone; why trouble ye her? she hath wrought a good work on Me.... 8. She hath done what she could: she is come aforehand to anoint My body to the burying. 9. Verily I say unto you. Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached throughout the whole world, this also that she hath done shall be spoken of for a memorial of her.'--Mark xiv. 6-9. John's Gospel sets this incident in its due framework of time and place, and tells us the names of the actors. The time was within a week
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Questions About the Lord's Supper
THE paper which begins at this page requires a few words of prefatory explanation. It consists of fifty-one questions about the Lord's Supper, with special reference to points which are the subject of much dispute and controversy in the present day. It supplies fifty-one answers to these questions, chiefly drawn from the New Testament, and the Articles, Communion Service, and Catechism of the Church of England. It contains, in addition, some valuable extracts from the writings of standard English
John Charles Ryle—The Upper Room: Being a Few Truths for the Times

That He who is About to Communicate with Christ Ought to Prepare Himself with Great Diligence
The Voice of the Beloved I am the Lover of purity, and Giver of sanctity. I seek a pure heart, and there is the place of My rest. Prepare for Me the larger upper room furnished, and I will keep the Passover at thy house with my disciples.(1) If thou wilt that I come unto thee and abide with thee, purge out the old leaven,(2) and cleanse the habitation of thy heart. Shut out the whole world, and all the throng of sins; sit as a sparrow alone upon the house-top,(3) and think upon thy transgressions
Thomas A Kempis—Imitation of Christ

Twenty-Eighth Lesson. Father! not what I Will;'
Father! Not what I will;' Or, Christ the Sacrifice. And He said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto Thee; remove this cup from me: howbeit not what I will, but what Thou wilt.'--Mark xiv. 36. WHAT a contrast within the space of a few hours! What a transition from the quiet elevation of that, He lifted up His eyes to heaven, and said, FATHER I WILL,' to that falling on the ground and crying in agony. My Father! Not what I will.' In the one we see the High Priest within the veil in His
Andrew Murray—With Christ in the School of Prayer

Letter xiii. Christian Activity.
"She hath done what she could."--MARK 14:8. MY DEAR SISTER, You doubtless feel a deep interest in the great benevolent enterprises of the present day. No one who possesses the spirit of our Master can be indifferent towards them. It is important, then, that you should know what you can do towards moving forward these enterprises. For, remember that your obligation is as extensive as your ability. Christ commended the woman, referred to in the passage above quoted for doing "what she could."
Harvey Newcomb—A Practical Directory for Young Christian Females

Mark.
Commentaries. George Petter (the largest Com. on M., London, 1661, 2 vols. fol.); C. Fr. A. Fritzsche (Evangelium Marci, Lips., 1830); A. Klostermann (Das Marcusevangelium nach seinem Quellenwerthe für die evang. Gesch., Göttingen, 1867); B. Weiss (Das Marcusevangelium und seine synopt. Parallelen, Berlin, 1872); Meyer (6th ed. by Weiss, Gött., 1878); Joseph A. Alexander (New York, 1858, and London, 1866); Harvey Goodwin (London, 1860); John H. Godwin (London, 1869); James Morison
Philip Schaff—History of the Christian Church, Volume I

"She Hath done what She Could. " Mark 14:8.
"She hath done what she could." Mark 14:8. 1 Bless, O bless, Almighty Father, Woman's mission with our race,-- Her fond strivings here to gather Fruits of thy redeeming grace. 2 Though her way be not where honor Wins the gazing world's acclaim, Yet we bless thee that upon her Rests the power of Jesus' name. 3 In that name, O Father, strengthen Her full heart and ready hands; May her efforts serve to lengthen Christian love's encircling bands. 4 Where the mourning and the needy And the suffering
J.G. Adams—Hymns for Christian Devotion

Jerusalem
For the history of the disciples after the death of Jesus we are dependent upon a single source, the Acts of the Apostles, which can, however, be controlled, and to some extent corrected, by the gospels and by the epistles of Paul. It is now generally recognised that if any one wishes to write a life of Christ he ought to base his work not on the gospels as we have them now, but rather on the information provided by the critical analysis of the gospels as to their sources. These sources, or at least
Kirsopp Lake—Landmarks in the History of Early Christianity

Watch and Pray. --Mark. xiv. 38
Watch and Pray.--Mark. xiv. 38. Our Saviour's words are "Watch and Pray:" Lord, make us willing to obey; Lord, make us able to fulfil Thy counsel--give both power and will. The wisdom from above impart, To keep our hand, and tongue, and heart, In thought, word, deed,--that so we may Pray whilst we watch, watch while we pray. Lest while we watch, and fear no snare, We fall into neglect of prayer; Or, while we pray, and watch not, sin Creep like a subtil serpent in. When by an evil world beset,
James Montgomery—Sacred Poems and Hymns

As the Rind of a Pomegranate are Thy Cheeks, Besides that which is Hidden Within.
As the rind of the pomegranate is the least part of it, and includes all its excellence, so with this soul, its exterior appears of small account in comparison with what is concealed within. [42] The interior is filled with, the purest charity and the most advanced graces, but hidden under a very common exterior; for God takes pleasure in hiding away the souls He destines for Himself. Men are not worthy to know them, though the angels admire and respect them even under the humblest external form
Madame Guyon—Song of Songs of Solomon

Links
Mark 14:65 NIV
Mark 14:65 NLT
Mark 14:65 ESV
Mark 14:65 NASB
Mark 14:65 KJV

Mark 14:65 Commentaries

Bible Hub
Mark 14:64
Top of Page
Top of Page