Bible Strands
Matthew 26:20
When evening came, Jesus was reclining with the twelve disciples.
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — Jesus reclines with the twelve disciples at the moment evening arrives, immediately after they have prepared the Passover meal. This gathering marks the opening of the final meal before His betrayal.
The words — The Greek Ὀψίας (Opsias) means "as evening" and ἀνέκειτο (anekeito) translates literally to "He was reclining." These terms establish the precise time and the customary posture for a Passover meal.
The thread — This evening gathering parallels Mark 14:17, which notes Jesus arriving with the Twelve at nightfall, and anticipates the betrayal prediction in John 13:21. It also echoes the Passover instructions in Exodus 12:11 regarding being ready to eat.
Why it lands — The verse places the reader at the table where the Passover meal begins, requiring attention to the impending betrayal Jesus will announce. It demands recognition that the setting of fellowship precedes the revelation of treason.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
Now when the even was come, he sat down with the twelve.
Cross-references
- Mark 14:17 When evening came, Jesus arrived with the Twelve.
- John 13:21 After Jesus had said this, He became troubled in spirit and testified, “Truly, truly, I tell you, one of you will betray Me.”
- Exodus 12:11 This is how you are to eat it: You must be fully dressed for travel, with your sandals on your feet and your staff in your hand. You are to eat in haste; it is the LORD’s Passover.
- Song of Solomon 1:12 While the king was at his table, my perfume spread its fragrance.
- Luke 22:14 When the hour had come, Jesus reclined at the table with His apostles.