Jesusâs âSorrowâ (Matt. 26.37â8)? Exploring the Connotations of a Tabooed Emotion
In: Biblical InterpretationSearch for other papers by B.G. White in
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Abstract
The attribution of λÏÏη to Jesus in Matthewâs Gethsemane (26.37â38) â typically translated as âsorrowâ or âgriefâ â is often understood as an attempt to humanize Jesusâs anguish with a relatively benign emotion. However, interpreters rarely offer detailed analyses of the term or its connotations, particularly its physical intensity and how it readily triggered condemnation. This article employs semantic theory and affect theory to gain a fuller perspective on Jesusâs λÏÏη. It surveys the use of Î»Ï Ï- words in ancient sources, classifies Jesusâs λÏÏη as âdeep despairâ, and highlights how the emotion was widely regarded as unacceptable for an honorable person, let alone a messiah. Finally, it traces allusions to the emotion within the passion narrative and offers suggestions for interpretation, including the irony that Jesusâs seemingly irredeemable qualities allow him to identify with those in emotional turmoil and more fully become Israelâs Immanuel.
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Jesusâs âSorrowâ (Matt. 26.37â8)? Exploring the Connotations of a Tabooed Emotion
In: Biblical InterpretationSearch for other papers by B.G. White in
Current site
Google Scholar
PubMed
Abstract
The attribution of λÏÏη to Jesus in Matthewâs Gethsemane (26.37â38) â typically translated as âsorrowâ or âgriefâ â is often understood as an attempt to humanize Jesusâs anguish with a relatively benign emotion. However, interpreters rarely offer detailed analyses of the term or its connotations, particularly its physical intensity and how it readily triggered condemnation. This article employs semantic theory and affect theory to gain a fuller perspective on Jesusâs λÏÏη. It surveys the use of Î»Ï Ï- words in ancient sources, classifies Jesusâs λÏÏη as âdeep despairâ, and highlights how the emotion was widely regarded as unacceptable for an honorable person, let alone a messiah. Finally, it traces allusions to the emotion within the passion narrative and offers suggestions for interpretation, including the irony that Jesusâs seemingly irredeemable qualities allow him to identify with those in emotional turmoil and more fully become Israelâs Immanuel.
| All Time | Past 365 days | Past 30 Days | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abstract Views | 678 | 214 | 9 |
| Full Text Views | 91 | 39 | 1 |
| PDF Views & Downloads | 262 | 117 | 3 |
