The term "cock crowing" refers to the time of night when roosters begin to crow, typically marking the transition from night to early morning. In biblical times, this was a significant marker of time, especially during the night watches. The concept of cock crowing is most notably associated with the events surrounding Peter's denial of Jesus Christ, as recorded in the New Testament.

Biblical References:

1. Matthew 26:34, 74-75 : Jesus foretells Peter's denial, saying, "Truly I tell you, this very night, before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times." Later, after Peter denies knowing Jesus, "Immediately a rooster crowed. Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken: 'Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.' And he went outside and wept bitterly."

2. Mark 14:30, 68, 72 : In Mark's account, Jesus tells Peter, "Truly I tell you, today—this very night, before the rooster crows twice, you will deny Me three times." After Peter's denials, "Immediately the rooster crowed a second time. Then Peter remembered the word that Jesus had spoken to him: 'Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny Me three times.' And he broke down and wept."

3. Luke 22:34, 60-62 : Jesus warns Peter, "I tell you, Peter, the rooster will not crow today until you have denied three times that you know Me." After the third denial, "Just as he was speaking, the rooster crowed. And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: 'Before the rooster crows today, you will deny Me three times.' And he went outside and wept bitterly."

4. John 13:38 : Jesus addresses Peter, "Will you really lay down your life for Me? Truly, truly, I tell you, before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times."

Significance in Scripture:

The crowing of the rooster serves as a poignant reminder of human frailty and the fulfillment of Jesus' prophetic words. It marks a moment of deep personal failure for Peter, who, despite his earlier bold declarations of loyalty, succumbs to fear and denies his association with Jesus. The rooster's crowing is a catalyst for Peter's realization of his actions, leading to his repentance and eventual restoration.

In the cultural context of the time, the crowing of the rooster was a familiar sound that signaled the approach of dawn. It was a natural time marker, dividing the night into watches. The mention of the rooster crowing in the Gospels underscores the immediacy and inevitability of the events that Jesus predicted.

Symbolic Interpretation:

Theologically, the rooster's crowing can be seen as a symbol of awakening and vigilance. It serves as a call to spiritual alertness and readiness, reminding believers of the need to remain faithful and watchful in their walk with Christ. The incident with Peter highlights the importance of humility and reliance on God's strength rather than one's own resolve.

The narrative of Peter's denial and the subsequent crowing of the rooster is a powerful testament to the grace and forgiveness available through Christ. Despite Peter's failure, he is later restored and becomes a foundational leader in the early Church, demonstrating the transformative power of repentance and divine mercy.Matthew 26:34,74,75
Jesus said to him, Truly I say to you, That this night, before the cock crow, you shall deny me thrice.
Nave's Topical Index

Mark 13:35
Watch you therefore: for you know not when the master of the house comes, at even, or at midnight, or at the cock-crowing, or in the morning:
Nave's Topical Index

Mark 14:30,68,72
And Jesus said to him, Truly I say to you, That this day, even in this night, before the cock crow twice, you shall deny me thrice.
Nave's Topical Index

The Pilgrim's Progress
... I told you then, also, what I saw concerning his wife and children, and how unwilling
they were to go with him on pilgrimage, insomuch that he was forced to go ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the pilgrims progress.htm

part i
... In the Holy Scriptures we see God face to face, and ourselves as we are. ... "God Himself
worketh in us." [13] In general, throughout the world we see the Kingdom ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part i.htm

Come and Welcome to Jesus Christ;
... Therefore, thus it is said concerning the true comers, At ... Besides, there are many
other scriptures whereby he allureth ... it; and that in these two general heads. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/come and welcome to jesus.htm

What does the rooster represent in Christianity? | GotQuestions.org

What is the significance of the rooster crowing in regards to Peter denying Jesus three times? | GotQuestions.org

Cock: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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