Malchus

Technical Profile

• Name Meaning: From Hebrew melek (“king”); likely signifies “king” or “royal.”
• Period/Era: Second Temple Period (Roman Imperial Context)
• Main References: John 18; Luke 22; Matthew 26; Mark 14
• Key Connections: Servant of the high priest; encountered Jesus and Simon Peter during the arrest

Who was Malchus?

Malchus was a servant (Greek doulos) of the high priest involved in the arrest of Jesus.
He is named only in John’s Gospel in connection with the incident at Gethsemane.
During the confrontation, Simon Peter struck him with a sword and cut off his right ear.
Luke reports that Jesus healed the injury in the same scene.

Key Events & Achievements

• Event 1: Present with the arresting party when they came to seize Jesus (John 18:3).
• Event 2: Had his right ear cut off by Simon Peter during the arrest (John 18:10).
• Event 3: Was healed by Jesus after the injury (Luke 22:51).

Life Lesson & Legacy

Malchus’s brief appearance highlights Jesus’ nonviolent posture and merciful action even toward those participating in his arrest.

Key Verse

"But Jesus said, “No more of this!” And he touched his ear and healed him." — Luke 22:51, ESV