LUKE 22:63–65
JESUS MOCKED AND BEATEN
Text – Luke 22:63–65
63 The men who held Jesus in custody were ridiculing and beating him.
64 They blindfolded him and questioned him, saying, “Prophesy! Who is it that struck you?”
65 And they reviled him in saying many other things against him.
Historical and Jewish Context
After His arrest, Jesus is subjected to abuse by those guarding Him. Such mistreatment of prisoners was not uncommon in the ancient world, especially during the night before formal hearings. Blindfolding and mockery were meant to humiliate and discredit Him, particularly by ridiculing His identity as a prophet. The taunts reflect a deep misunderstanding of true prophecy, which is not a display of power for entertainment but faithful obedience to God’s word. The scene unfolds in darkness, both literal and spiritual, before the official proceedings resume at daybreak.
Catholic Theological Perspective
This passage reveals the depth of Christ’s humiliation freely accepted for humanity’s redemption. Catholic theology sees here the fulfillment of the Suffering Servant who endures insult and violence without retaliation. Jesus’ silence and endurance manifest perfect obedience and love. By accepting mockery and blows, He identifies with all who suffer injustice, abuse, and degradation. His apparent powerlessness is, in truth, the power of self-giving love that redeems. The Church teaches that Christ’s suffering is redemptive and invites believers to unite their own trials with His.
Parallels in Scripture
Is 50:6 – The servant gives his back to those who strike him.
Is 53:3–7 – The suffering servant despised and afflicted.
Ps 22:7–9 – Mockery directed at the righteous sufferer.
Mt 26:67–68 – Parallel account of Jesus being struck and mocked.
1 Pt 2:23 – Christ did not return insult for insult.
Key Terms
Ridiculing – Humiliation intended to deny dignity.
Blindfolded – Symbol of mockery and spiritual blindness.
Prophesy – Misused here to ridicule Jesus’ prophetic identity.
Reviled – Verbal abuse expressing hardened hearts.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This passage is proclaimed during Holy Week as part of the Passion narrative. It invites the faithful to contemplate Christ’s silent endurance and to recognize His solidarity with all who suffer humiliation or violence. The Church uses this text to foster compassion, patience, and nonviolence rooted in Christ’s example.
Conclusion
Jesus endures mockery and violence without resistance. In His silence and suffering, He fulfills Scripture and reveals the depth of divine love. What appears as weakness becomes the means of salvation.
Reflection
How do I respond when I am misunderstood, mocked, or treated unjustly?
Do I unite my sufferings with Christ’s for the good of others?
Jesus invites me to trust in God’s justice and to respond to injury with faith and patience.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, mocked and mistreated for my sake, give me the grace to endure trials with faith and humility. Help me see Your presence in moments of suffering and to respond with love rather than bitterness. May my life reflect Your patient and redemptive love. Amen.