Definition: And the men that held Jesus mocked him, and smote [him].

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this very important passage from Luke’s Gospel (Chapter 22). Here’s a simplified explanation: What happened? Jesus was being mocked – meaning people were making fun of him. The men who were surrounding him were shouting and pushing him around. They were essentially trying to humiliate him, to make him feel bad. What did they do? They struck him. “Smote” means to hit someone with a blow. This is a very serious act – it was a physical assault against Jesus’s person. Why is this important? This is one of the most shocking parts of the Bible, and it's often interpreted as a sign that Jesus knew he was going to be betrayed and killed. It shows: Jesus was being targeted: He wasn’t just being ignored; he was actively being attacked. The beginning of his suffering: This event is considered the very first act of violence against him, marking the start of a period of intense hardship for Jesus. A warning to those who follow him: It's a serious warning to anyone who might be tempted to betray or persecute Jesus. Important Note: The word "smote" is tricky. It doesn’t necessarily mean a gentle push or slap. It suggests a forceful, deliberate blow meant to cause pain and humiliation. In short, this verse describes a moment of intense hostility towards Jesus, which foreshadowed his coming death. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about the time period? Discuss the meaning behind the word "smote" in more detail?