Luke 22:60
And Peter said, Man, I know not what thou sayest. And immediately, while he yet spake, the cock crew.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
Jewish law prohibited keeping roosters in Jerusalem due to cleanliness regulations, but Roman soldiers and wealthy residents ignored this. The crowing likely came from the Roman garrison or nearby estates. Roosters typically crow around 3-4 AM, suggesting Jesus' trials lasted through the night. The 'cock-crow' (Greek alektōr, Hebrew tarnegol) marked the end of third watch, signaling approaching dawn. Jesus had warned Peter at midnight; by cock-crow Peter had denied Him thrice. The timing fulfilled prophecy precisely, showing God's sovereignty over even animal behavior.
Questions for Reflection
- What does Peter's denial of even understanding the accusation reveal about sin's progression?
- How does the rooster's crow function as both judgment and mercy?
- What 'alarms' does God use in your life to awaken you to spiritual danger?
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Analysis & Commentary
And Peter said, Man, I know not what thou sayest. And immediately, while he yet spake, the cock crew. Peter's third denial is emphatic: anthrōpe, ouk oida ho legeis (ἄνθρωπε, οὐκ οἶδα ὃ λέγεις, 'man, I do not know what you say'). This transcends denying Jesus—Peter denies even understanding the accusation. He pretends total ignorance, as if the conversation itself is incomprehensible. The phrase parachrēma eti lalountos autou (παραχρῆμα ἔτι λαλοῦντος αὐτοῦ, 'immediately while he yet spoke') emphasizes divine timing—parachrēma (παραχρῆμα) means 'at that very moment.' Peter's mouth still forms denial when ephōnēsen alektōr (ἐφώνησεν ἀλέκτωρ, 'a rooster crowed').
The rooster's crow is God's alarm clock, awakening Peter to his sin. Jesus predicted this exact sequence: 'before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice' (v. 34). Every word fulfilled: three denials, before cock-crow. The rooster announces dawn—literally and spiritually. It ends Peter's night of darkness and begins his journey to restoration. The bird's cry is simultaneously condemnation (exposing sin) and grace (prompting repentance). Nature itself testifies against Peter, yet God uses creation to reclaim His fallen apostle.