Topical Encyclopedia Cock-crowing refers to the time of night when roosters begin to crow, typically marking the early hours of the morning. In biblical times, this natural phenomenon was used as a time indicator, particularly in the context of the events surrounding the arrest and trial of Jesus Christ. The term "cock-crowing" is most notably associated with the Apostle Peter's denial of Jesus, as foretold by Christ Himself.Biblical References: 1. Peter's Denial: The most significant mention of cock-crowing in the Bible is found in the accounts of Peter's denial of Jesus. Jesus predicted that Peter would deny Him three times before the rooster crowed. This prophecy is recorded in all four Gospels: · Matthew 26:34 : "Truly I tell you," Jesus declared, "this very night, before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times." · Mark 14:30 : "Truly I tell you," Jesus replied, "this very night, before the rooster crows twice, you will deny Me three times." · Luke 22:34 : But Jesus replied, "I tell you, Peter, the rooster will not crow today until you have denied three times that you know Me." · John 13:38 : Jesus answered, "Will you really lay down your life for Me? Truly, truly, I tell you, before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times." The fulfillment of this prophecy is a poignant moment in the Gospels, highlighting Peter's human frailty and the foreknowledge of Christ. After Peter's third denial, the rooster crowed, and Peter remembered Jesus' words, leading to his deep remorse and repentance. 2. Time Indicator: In the ancient world, cock-crowing served as a natural time marker, dividing the night into watches. The Romans divided the night into four watches, and the third watch, from midnight to 3 a.m., was often referred to as "cock-crowing." This time was significant for its association with vigilance and readiness, as seen in Jesus' teachings about being watchful: · Mark 13:35 : "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know when the master of the house will return—whether in the evening, at midnight, when the rooster crows, or in the morning." Symbolism and Lessons: Cock-crowing carries rich symbolic meaning within the Christian tradition. It serves as a reminder of human weakness and the need for vigilance in faith. Peter's denial and subsequent repentance illustrate the mercy and forgiveness available through Christ, even when believers falter. The crowing of the rooster is a call to spiritual alertness, urging Christians to remain steadfast and prepared for the return of the Lord. In summary, cock-crowing is a significant biblical motif that underscores themes of prophecy, repentance, and readiness. It is a vivid reminder of the importance of faithfulness and the grace extended to those who seek forgiveness. ATS Bible Dictionary Cock-CrowingThe third watch of the night, in the time of Christ. See HOUR. Easton's Bible Dictionary In our Lord's time the Jews had adopted the Greek and Roman division of the night into four watches, each consisting of three hours, the first beginning at six o'clock in the evening (Luke 12:38; Matthew 14:25; Mark 6:48). But the ancient division, known as the first and second cock-crowing, was still retained. The cock usually crows several times soon after midnight (this is the first crowing), and again at the dawn of day (and this is the second crowing). Mark mentions (14:30) the two cock-crowings. Matthew (26:34) alludes to that only which was emphatically the cock-crowing, viz, the second. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia COCK-CROWINGkok'-kro-ing (alektorophonia): An indefinite hour of the night between midnight and morning (Mark 13:35), referred to by all the evangelists in their account of Peter's denial (Matthew 26:34, 74 Mark 14:30 Luke 22:34 John 13:38). It is derived from the habit of the cock to crow especially toward morning. Greek 219. alektorophonia -- the crowing of a rooster ... cockcrowing. From alektor and phone; cock-crow, ie The third night-watch -- cockcrowing. see GREEK alektor. see GREEK phone. (alektorophonias) -- 1 Occurrence. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/219.htm - 6k Library Notes Judas' Betrayal and Peter's Denial Foretold. On Feast Days and Fast Days. Certain Prayers and Laws. Against Atheism and Infidelity. Meditations for the Morning. Our Lord Himself Spoke of his Return in the Language of Imminency. The Annunciation of St. John the Baptist Discussion of the Saying of Peter. The Answer to the Effect that the Fast of Lent Has Reference to ... Thesaurus Cockcrowing (1 Occurrence)... morning. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. COCK-CROWING. kok ... morning. See COCK. Multi-Version Concordance Cockcrowing (1 Occurrence). Mark ... /c/cockcrowing.htm - 8k Cock-crowing (3 Occurrences) Cock (12 Occurrences) Cockcrow (1 Occurrence) Night (3322 Occurrences) Outside (215 Occurrences) Owner (56 Occurrences) Cock-crow (1 Occurrence) Cocker Day (17670 Occurrences) Resources What is the significance of the rooster crowing in regards to Peter denying Jesus three times? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the rooster represent in Christianity? | GotQuestions.org Questions about Matthew | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Cock-crowing (3 Occurrences)Matthew 26:34 Matthew 26:75 Mark 13:35 Subtopics Related Terms |
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