Grant unto us that we may sit, one on thy right hand, and the other on thy left hand, in thy glory (δὸς ἡμῖν ἵνα...καθίσωμεν, dos hēmin hina...kathisōmen). The verb δὸς (dos) is an imperative—"Grant!"—revealing presumptuous boldness. They demand rather than humbly request, assuming entitlement to positions of honor.
The phrase "thy right hand and thy left" (ἐκ δεξιῶν σου καὶ εἷς ἐξ εὐωνύμων σου, ek dexiōn sou kai heis ex euōnymōn sou) refers to the places of highest honor beside a king's throne—positions of chief authority and prestige. Matthew's parallel account (20:20-21) notes their mother Salome made the request, suggesting family coordination for dynastic positioning.
The phrase "in thy glory" (ἐν τῇ δόξῃ σου, en tē doxē sou) reveals they envision Jesus' kingdom in earthly, political terms—a visible throne with positions of power. They completely misunderstand that Jesus' glory comes through crucifixion (John 12:23-24) and that kingdom greatness means servant leadership (Mark 10:43-44). Ironically, at Jesus' crucifixion, two others will occupy positions at His right and left—two thieves on crosses (Mark 15:27).
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern courts featured hierarchical seating arrangements reflecting status and authority—those closest to the king held greatest power. In Persian, Greek, and Roman imperial courts, positions at the ruler's right and left signified chief ministers or advisors. The disciples' request reflects their assumption that Jesus would establish an earthly messianic kingdom with governmental structure similar to surrounding nations. This expectation persisted even after resurrection (Acts 1:6). James and John were part of Jesus' inner circle (along with Peter) who witnessed the Transfiguration (9:2) and would witness Gethsemane (14:33)—their privileged access perhaps fueled their sense of entitlement.
Questions for Reflection
How does the disciples' request for positions 'in thy glory' expose the human tendency to desire kingdom benefits without kingdom suffering?
What does the ironic fulfillment—two thieves flanking Jesus on the cross—teach about the path to true glory in God's kingdom?
When do you seek positions, recognition, or influence in ministry for self-advancement rather than service?
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Analysis & Commentary
Grant unto us that we may sit, one on thy right hand, and the other on thy left hand, in thy glory (δὸς ἡμῖν ἵνα...καθίσωμεν, dos hēmin hina...kathisōmen). The verb δὸς (dos) is an imperative—"Grant!"—revealing presumptuous boldness. They demand rather than humbly request, assuming entitlement to positions of honor.
The phrase "thy right hand and thy left" (ἐκ δεξιῶν σου καὶ εἷς ἐξ εὐωνύμων σου, ek dexiōn sou kai heis ex euōnymōn sou) refers to the places of highest honor beside a king's throne—positions of chief authority and prestige. Matthew's parallel account (20:20-21) notes their mother Salome made the request, suggesting family coordination for dynastic positioning.
The phrase "in thy glory" (ἐν τῇ δόξῃ σου, en tē doxē sou) reveals they envision Jesus' kingdom in earthly, political terms—a visible throne with positions of power. They completely misunderstand that Jesus' glory comes through crucifixion (John 12:23-24) and that kingdom greatness means servant leadership (Mark 10:43-44). Ironically, at Jesus' crucifixion, two others will occupy positions at His right and left—two thieves on crosses (Mark 15:27).