A.T. Robertson Commentary Matthew 14:23

"And after he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into the mountain apart to pray: and when even was come, he was there alone." — Matthew 14:23 (ASV)

Into the mountain (εις το ορος). After the dismissal of the crowd Jesus went up alone into the mountain on the eastern side of the lake to pray as he often did go to the mountains to pray. If ever he needed the Father's sympathy, it was now. The masses were wild with enthusiasm and the disciples wholly misunderstood him. The Father alone could offer help now.