Chapel of the Capture (Capela da Prisão) - Sanctuary of Bom Jesus - Braga

The third chapel of the Way of the Cross at Bom Jesus do Monte is the Capela da Prisão ( Chapel of the Capture ).

This chapel depicts the capture of Jesus in the Garden of Olives, after he was betrayed by Judas with a kiss. Jesus is surrounded by soldiers who arrest him. Judas stands by as a traitor. Peter cuts off the ear of Malchus, a servant of the high priest, but Jesus heals him immediately.

Inside a life-size group of statues : Jesus is seized by soldiers. Judas, often with a guilty face, stands nearby. Peter holds a sword, referring to his attack on Malchus.

It shows the beginning of Jesus' Passion , where he allows himself to be taken without resistance. Judas' kiss symbolizes betrayal and hypocrisy , while Peter's sword represents the human instinct to fight.

Willem Vandenameele