Mark 15:23
What does Mark 15:23 mean?
A plain-English look at Mark 15:23 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Mark 15:23 means
They offer Jesus wine mixed with myrrh, likely intended as a mild analgesic or sedative, but he refuses it. The offer could be seen as a customary mercy to dull pain or as a further humiliation—some give it to prisoners to ease suffering. Jesus’ refusal indicates his full consciousness and willing acceptance of suffering. He declines anything that would impair his ability to face the cross completely awake and responsible, emphasizing the voluntary nature of his sacrifice.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000And they offered him wine mingled with myrrh: but he received it not.
KJV
King James Version · 1611And they gave him to drink wine mingled with myrrh: but he received it not.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901And they offered him wine mingled with myrrh: but he received it not.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949And they gave him wine mixed with myrrh; but he did not take it.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862and they were giving him to drink wine mingled with myrrh, and he did not receive.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752And they gave him to drink wine mingled with myrrh. But he took it not.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890And they offered him wine [to drink] medicated with myrrh; but he did not take [it].
Context
This occurs upon arrival at Golgotha, right before crucifixion. The offer of wine mingled with myrrh and Jesus’ refusal sets the tone for his clear-headed, unmitigated suffering. It contrasts any notion that he was a passive victim removed from control—he consciously embraces the pain necessary for his redemptive work.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- John 19:28
After this Jesus, knowing that all things are now finished, that the scripture might be accomplished, saith, I thirst.
- Matthew 26:19
And the disciples did as Jesus appointed them; and they made ready the passover.
- Luke 22:18
for I say unto you, I shall not drink from henceforth of the fruit of the vine, until the kingdom of God shall come.
- Luke 23:36
And the soldiers also mocked him, coming to him, offering him vinegar,
- Mark 14:25
Verily I say unto you, I shall no more drink of the fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.
- Matthew 27:34
they gave him wine to drink mingled with gall: and when he had tasted it, he would not drink.
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