Gethsemane

The place where Jesus spent time in sorrowful prayers just before he was betrayed and arrested before his trial and crucifixion (Matt 26:36ff; Mk 14:32ff). It is located on the slopes of the Mount of Olives across the valley of Kidron from the city of Jerusalem. It probably got its name from the oil-press (gath-semen in Hebrew) found nearby.

☰ See Where

One of the likely locations of Gethsemane

While he was there, Jesus would have seen the arresting party approaching from the other side of the Kidron. He could have gone up Mount Olive and, within just ten minutes at the most, he would be 'lost' in the Judean desert. Having prayed, "My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done" (Mt 26:42), he stayed and took up the Cross.

CONCORDANCE (NIV)

Matt 26:36 — Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, "Sit here while I go over there and pray."

Mk 14:32 — They went to a place called Gethsemane, and Jesus said to his disciples, "Sit here while I pray."