Definition: And saith unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful unto death: tarry ye here, and watch.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly poignant passage from Mark. It's a really powerful and unsettling moment in the Gospel of Matthew. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus is feeling immense grief and despair – so much so that he feels like his soul is dying. He’s saying, “I feel like I’m going to die.” Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And saith unto them…” : This is Jesus speaking directly to a group of people – likely his disciples. It's a dramatic and intense declaration. “…My soul is exceeding sorrowful unto death” : This is the core of the verse. “Soul” refers to his spirit, his essence, and his very being. "Exceeding sorrowful" means he’s experiencing an overwhelming sense of sadness, pain, and hopelessness. The word "exceeding" emphasizes how deep his grief is. It's not just a little sad; it’s a profound and desperate feeling of impending doom. “unto death” further highlights the gravity of his emotional state – he feels like his life is ending. “Tarry ye here, and watch.” : This is the crucial part. Jesus isn't simply expressing his sadness; he’s requesting for their continued presence. He wants them to witness this profound emotion. What does it mean? It suggests a few things: He's feeling vulnerable: Jesus is putting himself in a position of vulnerability – he’s acknowledging his own pain and fear. He needs their perspective: His sorrow isn't just for himself; it’s because he needs to share this experience with others. He wants to be witnessed, to feel acknowledged by those around him. It’s a moment of intense testing: This is a significant moment of test – it could be about the future or perhaps about how his followers will respond to what he's feeling. Why is this important? This verse is incredibly symbolic and has been interpreted in many ways throughout history. It speaks to: Jesus’ suffering: It represents Jesus’ own pain and sacrifice. The importance of presence: It highlights the significance of being present with God and with others, especially during times of difficulty. In short, "And saith unto them..." is a powerful expression of deep sorrow and a plea for continued witness. --- Would you like me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Discuss its significance from a specific theological perspective (e.g., Roman Catholic or Protestant)?