Topical Encyclopedia The phrase "sweat of great drops" refers to a unique and profound moment in the life of Jesus Christ, as recorded in the Gospel of Luke. This event occurred during Jesus' time of intense prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, on the night before His crucifixion. The passage in question is found in Luke 22:44, which states: "And in His anguish, He prayed more earnestly, and His sweat became like drops of blood falling to the ground" .This phenomenon is often understood as a rare medical condition known as hematidrosis, where an individual sweats blood due to extreme stress or emotional anguish. The occurrence of hematidrosis is documented in medical literature, though it is exceedingly rare. In the context of Jesus' experience, it underscores the immense psychological and spiritual burden He bore as He anticipated His impending suffering and crucifixion. Theologically, this moment in Gethsemane is significant for several reasons. First, it highlights the true humanity of Jesus. Despite being fully divine, Jesus experienced genuine human emotions, including fear, distress, and sorrow. His intense prayer and physical reaction demonstrate the weight of the mission He was about to fulfill—the redemption of humanity through His sacrificial death. Second, the "sweat of great drops" serves as a profound illustration of Jesus' obedience and submission to the Father's will. In the midst of His anguish, Jesus prayed, "Father, if You are willing, take this cup from Me. Yet not My will, but Yours be done" (Luke 22:42). This prayer reflects His willingness to endure suffering for the sake of fulfilling God's redemptive plan. Finally, this event in Gethsemane is a powerful reminder of the depth of Christ's love for humanity. The agony He experienced was not only physical but also spiritual, as He prepared to bear the sins of the world. His willingness to endure such suffering out of love for humankind is central to the Christian understanding of salvation. In summary, the "sweat of great drops" in the Garden of Gethsemane is a poignant moment that reveals the humanity, obedience, and sacrificial love of Jesus Christ. It serves as a testament to the profound cost of redemption and the depth of God's love for His creation. Nave's Topical Index Luke 22:44And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground. Nave's Topical Index Library Gethsemane The Courage of the Saviour The Blood-Shedding The Sweet Uses of Adversity The Saviour's Many Crowns Salvation to the Uttermost Christ's Priestly Office Love On Our Lord's Passion, Death, Resurrection, and Ascension The Death of Christ for his People Resources What is the significance of the folded napkin in Christ's tomb after the resurrection? | GotQuestions.orgIs it wrong to have a crush on someone? | GotQuestions.org Is “you reap what you sow” biblical? | GotQuestions.org Sweat: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |