The Bible verse Luke 22:61 in the King James Version (KJV) reads: "And the Lord turned, and looked upon Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice."

This verse is part of the narrative of Jesus' arrest and Peter's denial of him, which is a pivotal moment in the Gospel of Luke. To fully understand the meaning and commentary of this verse, it is important to consider its context within the larger story and the symbolism it carries.

The passage leading up to Luke 22:61 describes the events that took place after Jesus was arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane. Peter followed Jesus at a distance and ended up denying him three times, just as Jesus had foretold. In this particular verse, Peter's third denial has just taken place, and as he does so, Jesus turns and looks at him. This moment is significant because it marks the fulfillment of Jesus' prophecy and causes Peter to remember Jesus' words.

One of the key themes present in Luke 22:61 is the idea of betrayal and forgiveness. Peter, who was one of Jesus' closest disciples, denies knowing him in his time of need. This betrayal shows the weakness of human nature and the fragility of faith, as well as the pain and disappointment it causes Jesus. However, the moment of Jesus' gaze serves as a reminder of his love and forgiveness for Peter, despite his denial. This theme is central to the Christian faith, as it emphasizes the concept of grace and redemption, even in the face of human failure.

Another important theme in this verse is the idea of prophecy and fulfillment. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus frequently predicts the events that will unfold, and in this case, his prophecy about Peter's denial comes to pass. This serves as a testament to Jesus' authority and foreknowledge, as well as the reliability of his words. It also demonstrates the idea of God's sovereignty and control over the course of human events, even in the midst of betrayal and suffering.

The symbolism in Luke 22:61 is powerful and multifaceted. Jesus' gaze upon Peter can be interpreted as a look of sorrow, understanding, and compassion. It represents his awareness of Peter's weakness and his willingness to forgive and restore him. This gaze also serves as a convicting reminder to Peter of his own actions and the weight of his betrayal. Additionally, the crowing of the cock serves as a symbol of the fulfillment of prophecy and the dawn of a new day, marking the beginning of a new era through Jesus' death and resurrection.

In conclusion, Luke 22:61 is a poignant and powerful verse that captures the complex emotions and dynamics at play during Jesus' arrest and Peter's denial. It conveys essential themes of betrayal, forgiveness, prophecy, and redemption, and carries profound symbolism that adds depth and meaning to the narrative. This verse reminds us of the complexities of human nature and the unyielding love and grace of God, making it a significant and impactful passage within the larger context of the Gospel of Luke.