Devine Scripture

Matthew 26:20

What does Matthew 26:20 mean?

A plain-English look at Matthew 26:20 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Matthew 26:20 means

At evening Jesus sits down to eat with the twelve, marking the commencement of the Passover meal with his chosen inner circle. The setting is intimate and final—Jesus is sharing a last supper with those closest to him. The mention of 'the twelve' stresses the official group of apostles, emphasizing community, leadership, and impending transition. The meal is the backdrop for laying foundational words and actions about his death and the coming new covenant, making this moment both ordinary and redemptive.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

Now when even was come, he was sitting at meat with the twelve disciples;

KJV

King James Version · 1611

Now when the even was come, he sat down with the twelve.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

Now when even was come, he was sitting at meat with the twelve disciples;

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

Now when evening was come, he was seated at table with the twelve disciples;

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

And evening having come, he was reclining (at meat) with the twelve,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

But when it was evening, he sat down with his twelve disciples.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And when the evening was come he lay down at table with the twelve.

Context

This verse begins the Last Supper narrative after preparations. It follows the disciples’ obedient setup and situates the scene of teaching, revelation, and prophecy that will occur during the meal. The verse prepares readers for the dramatic announcements—betrayal, institution of bread and cup, and prediction of abandonment—that unfold during this evening.

v.19And the disciples did as Jesus appointed them; and they made ready the passover.

v.20This passage

v.21and as they were eating, he said, Verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Luke 22:14

    And when the hour was come, he sat down, and the apostles with him.

  • Song of Solomon 1:12

    While the king sat at his table, My spikenard sent forth its fragrance.

  • Exodus 12:11

    And thus shall ye eat it: with your loins girded, your shoes on your feet, and your staff in your hand; and ye shall eat it in haste: it is Jehovah’s passover.

  • Mark 14:17

    And when it was evening he cometh with the twelve.

  • John 13:21

    When Jesus had thus said, he was troubled in the spirit, and testified, and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me.

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