Matthew 26:22
And they were exceeding sorrowful, and began every one of them to say unto him, Lord, is it I?
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 12
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
λυπούμενοι
sorrowful
G3076
λυπούμενοι
sorrowful
Strong's:
G3076
Word #:
2 of 12
to distress; reflexively or passively, to be sad
σφόδρα
they were exceeding
G4970
σφόδρα
they were exceeding
Strong's:
G4970
Word #:
3 of 12
of uncertain derivation) as adverb; vehemently, i.e., in a high degree, much
λέγειν
to say
G3004
λέγειν
to say
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
5 of 12
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
αὐτῶν,
of them
G846
αὐτῶν,
of them
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
6 of 12
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
Historical Context
During the Passover seder, participants would discuss the meaning of Exodus deliverance and their own spiritual condition. The disciples' self-examination fits this pattern of introspection. Their questioning each separately suggests they went around the table systematically, each voicing the dreaded possibility.
Questions for Reflection
- When confronted with sin in the community, do you first examine your own heart or assume it's others?
- What does the disciples' uncertainty about their own loyalty teach about self-knowledge apart from Christ?
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Analysis & Commentary
Exceeding sorrowful (λυπούμενοι σφόδρα, lypoumenoi sphodra)—The disciples experience deep grief (lypeō) intensified by sphodra (greatly, vehemently). Each one's question—Lord, is it I? (Μήτι ἐγώ εἰμι, κύριε; Mēti egō eimi, kyrie?)—uses a negative particle expecting 'no' but expressing genuine self-doubt: 'Surely not I?'
Their individual questioning reveals healthy self-examination rather than pointing fingers at others. None were confident in their own integrity apart from Christ's affirmation. This humility contrasts with Peter's later self-assurance (v. 33). As Jeremiah warns: The heart is deceitful above all things... who can know it? (Jeremiah 17:9).