John 17:1

Ταῦτα ἐλάλησεν … καὶ ἐπῆρε. The connection of ἐλάλησεν with ἐπῆρε by καί shows that the prayer followed immediately upon the discourse, and was, therefore, uttered in the hearing of the disciples. ἐπῆρε … οὐρανόν, so 1 Chronicles 21:16. ἧρα τ. ὀφθ., Psalms 121:1; Psalms 123:1. From οὐρανόν it cannot be argued that they were in the open air. “Für das Auge des Geistes is der freie Himmel überall.” Lücke. “The eye of one who prays is on all occasions raised toward heaven.” Meyer. Πάτερ, ἐλήλυθεν ἡ ὥρα, “Father,” the simplest and most intimate form of address, cf. John 11:41; John 12:27. “The hour is come,” i.e., the hour appointed for the glorification of the Son; cf. John 2:4; John 12:23. That this hour is meant is shown by the petition which follows: δόξασόν σου τὸν υἱόν, “glorify Thy Son”. σου, in position of emphasis. This glorification embraced His death, resurrection, and session at God's right hand, as accredited Mediator, cf. John 7:39; John 12:16; John 12:23. But this glorification itself had an object, ἵνα ὁ υἱὸς δοξάσῃ σε, “that the Son may glorify Thee”. The Father is glorified by being known in His love and holiness.