Verse 44 There has been much speculation upon this passage, but to little purpose; since, in any case, the description is plainly intended to denote something preternaturally awful in this agony. The expression ceases to be surprising, when we consider that the mental anguish here endured was undoubtedly a part of that mysterious and protracted series of sufferings, which, commenced at Gethsemane, and ending upon the cross, constituted, in the closing scenes of the Savior's life, a great expiatory sacrifice to atone for the sins of the world.