Mark 1:26

KJV

And when the unclean spirit had torn him, and cried with a loud voice, he came out of him.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} when the unclean {G169} spirit {G4151} had torn {G4682} him {G846}, and {G2532} cried {G2896} with a loud {G3173} voice {G5456}, he came {G1831} out of {G1537} him {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Throwing the man into a convulsion, it gave a loud shriek and came out of him.

Berean Standard Bible

At this, the unclean spirit threw the man into convulsions and came out with a loud shriek.

American Standard Version

And the unclean spirit, tearing him and crying with a loud voice, came out of him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Mark 1:26 powerfully culminates the dramatic exorcism in the Capernaum synagogue, vividly depicting the violent, yet ultimately submissive, expulsion of an unclean spirit by Jesus' authoritative command. This pivotal moment not only showcases Jesus' unparalleled power over demonic forces but also serves as a foundational demonstration of His divine authority and the inbreaking of God's kingdom, leaving onlookers astonished and spreading His fame throughout the region.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is the climactic moment of Jesus' first recorded exorcism in Mark's Gospel, immediately following His initial teaching in the Capernaum synagogue on the Sabbath. The preceding verses establish Jesus' unique teaching authority, which astonished the crowds because it was "as one having authority, and not as the scribes" ([Mark 1:22](/mark/1-22 "Mark 1:22 - Jesus' Teaching Authority")). The sudden interruption by a man possessed by an unclean spirit, who recognized Jesus as "the Holy One of God" ([Mark 1:24](/mark/1-24 "Mark 1:24 - The Unclean Spirit's Recognition")), sets the stage for a direct confrontation. Jesus' immediate and terse command to the spirit—"Hold thy peace, and come out of him" ([Mark 1:25](/mark/1-25 "Mark 1:25 - Jesus' Command to the Spirit"))—underscores His absolute control, leading directly to the spirit's violent but obedient departure described in verse 26. The subsequent verses detail the profound amazement of the crowd and the rapid spread of Jesus' fame ([Mark 1:27-28](/mark/1-27-28 "Mark 1:27-28 - The People's Amazement and Jesus' Fame")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** First-century Jewish society, particularly in Galilee, was deeply immersed in a worldview that acknowledged the reality of spiritual forces, both benevolent and malevolent. Demonic possession was understood as a tangible affliction, often manifesting in physical or mental distress, and it was commonly believed that certain individuals, like exorcists, could cast out these spirits. However, traditional exorcism practices often involved elaborate rituals, incantations, or the invocation of a higher power. Jesus' method, in stark contrast, was remarkably direct and unmediated: a simple, authoritative command. This radical departure from conventional practices, coupled with the immediate and undeniable results, profoundly challenged the established religious authority and perceptions, highlighting a new and unprecedented source of power in the person of Jesus. The setting of the synagogue on the Sabbath further emphasizes the public and religious significance of this event, as it occurred in a sacred space on a holy day.
* **Key Themes:** Mark 1:26 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Mark's Gospel. Foremost is the theme of **Jesus' Supreme Authority (Exousia)**, particularly over the forces of evil. Unlike the scribes who taught based on tradition, Jesus acts with inherent power, demonstrating that His kingdom is breaking into the world with decisive force, directly confronting and overcoming the dominion of Satan. This event also highlights the **Reality and Hostility of Demonic Activity**, affirming the existence of spiritual entities that oppose God and afflict humanity. The spirit's violent reaction underscores its malevolence and its desperate, though futile, resistance to divine power. Finally, the passage emphasizes **Dramatic Deliverance**, portraying the physical manifestation of the spiritual battle. The "tearing" and "loud cry" are not merely incidental details but serve to underscore the intensity of the spiritual conflict and the undeniable, visible triumph of Jesus' power, leaving no doubt about the authenticity and efficacy of His work, a theme echoed throughout His ministry of healing and liberation, as seen in the broader narrative of [Mark's Gospel](/mark/1 "The Gospel of Mark").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **unclean (Greek, _akáthartos'_):** (G169) This adjective, derived from a negative particle and a word meaning "cleansed," signifies impurity. In this context, it refers to a spiritual impurity, specifically a demonic entity. It denotes something ceremonially, morally, or specially (demonic) defiled, highlighting the nature of the spirit as antithetical to God's holiness and order.
* **torn (Greek, _sparássō'_):** (G4682) This verb describes a violent, convulsive action, akin to mangling or rending. It vividly portrays the physical trauma inflicted upon the possessed man as the spirit was forcibly expelled. It suggests a spasmodic contraction or seizure, emphasizing the struggle and the raw power involved in the spirit's departure, a final act of defiance and pain before yielding to Jesus' command.
* **cried (Greek, _krázō'_):** (G2896) This primary verb means "to croak" or "screen," generally implying a loud, often desperate or exclamatory call. Here, it describes the spirit's final, piercing shriek. This "loud voice" (G3173, _mégas_ + G5456, _phōnḗ_) indicates a powerful, audible expression of distress, anger, or perhaps a final, futile protest as it was forced to relinquish its hold.
* **came out of (Greek, _exérchomai_ and _ek'_):** (G1831 and G1537) The verb _exérchomai_ means "to issue forth," "depart," or "go out," while the preposition _ek_ denotes origin, "from" or "out of." Together, they emphasize the complete and definitive expulsion of the spirit from the man. This is not a partial or temporary departure, but a full and irreversible exit, signifying the total victory of Jesus' authority over the demonic presence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And when the unclean spirit had torn him,"**: This clause describes the immediate physical manifestation of the spirit's violent departure. The verb "torn" (ἐσπάραξεν, _esparaxen_) indicates a severe convulsion or seizure, a final, destructive act by the spirit as it was forced to leave its host. This physical reaction underscores the intense spiritual battle and the malevolent nature of the spirit, which seeks to inflict harm even in its defeat. It was not a peaceful exit but a dramatic, visible struggle.
* **"and cried with a loud voice,"**: This phrase details the audible manifestation of the spirit's expulsion. The "loud voice" (φωνῇ μεγάλῃ, _phōnē megalē_) suggests a shriek, a wail, or a guttural cry of protest, pain, or defiance. It is the spirit's final, desperate expression of its unwilling submission to Jesus' command, a public acknowledgment of His superior power even as it departs. This loud cry would have been heard by all in the synagogue, further emphasizing the reality and drama of the exorcism.
* **"he came out of him."**: This concluding clause states the definitive outcome: the spirit's complete and irreversible exit from the man. Despite the violent tearing and loud cry, the spirit ultimately obeyed Jesus' command. This simple statement confirms Jesus' absolute authority and the immediate efficacy of His word. The man is now free, delivered from the oppressive spiritual presence, marking a clear and undeniable victory for Jesus.

#### Literary Devices
Mark 1:26 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its profound message. **Dramatic Irony** is evident as the unclean spirit, a malevolent entity, recognizes Jesus' true identity as "the Holy One of God" ([Mark 1:24](/mark/1-24 "Mark 1:24 - The Unclean Spirit Identifies Jesus")) before the human characters fully grasp who He is. This heightens the tension and underscores Jesus' divine nature. The vivid description of the spirit "tearing" the man and "crying with a loud voice" before departing is a prime example of **Pathos**, evoking a sense of suffering and the desperate struggle against an overwhelming force, while simultaneously highlighting the destructive nature of the demonic. This imagery also serves as **Foreshadowing**, hinting at the greater spiritual conflict and ultimate triumph of Christ over all forces of evil, including sin and death. The entire scene is a powerful **Symbolism** of Jesus' authority over chaos and spiritual darkness, signifying the inbreaking of God's kingdom and the beginning of the end for Satan's dominion.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Mark 1:26 is a foundational text for understanding Jesus' identity and mission. It establishes His absolute and inherent authority (Greek: _exousia_) over the spiritual realm, demonstrating that He is not merely a prophet or a healer, but the Son of God with power to confront and defeat the forces of darkness. This event signals the decisive incursion of God's kingdom into the world, directly challenging Satan's dominion. The violent reaction of the unclean spirit, though a display of its malevolence, ultimately serves to magnify Jesus' power, proving that even the most formidable spiritual adversaries are utterly subject to His command. This victory is not just over a single demon, but a microcosm of Christ's ultimate triumph over all principalities and powers, laying the groundwork for His redemptive work on the cross and resurrection.

* [Luke 4:35](/luke/4-35 "Luke's Account of the Capernaum Exorcism")
* [Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Christ's Triumph Over Spiritual Powers")
* [1 John 3:8](/1_john/3-8 "Jesus Appeared to Destroy the Works of the Devil")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Mark 1:26 offers profound and enduring truths for believers today. It serves as a powerful reminder that Jesus Christ possesses absolute authority over every form of spiritual darkness and oppression. In a world that often struggles with unseen forces, both spiritual and systemic, this verse provides immense reassurance that no power, no addiction, no stronghold is too formidable for Christ to overcome. For those who feel trapped or oppressed, it points to the deliverer who speaks with a word of power, bringing freedom and restoration. It also calls believers to a greater awareness of spiritual warfare, not to fear it, but to stand firm in the victory already secured by Christ. We are reminded that through Him, we too have been given authority to overcome evil, not in our own strength, but by relying on His name and His Spirit. This passage encourages us to trust in His sovereign control, to seek His deliverance in our struggles, and to live in the freedom that His triumph provides, knowing that His power is still at work.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Jesus' authority in this passage challenge your understanding of spiritual power and the nature of evil today?**
* **In what areas of your life do you need to trust more fully in Jesus' power to deliver and set free?**
* **What does the public and dramatic nature of this exorcism teach us about the visibility of God's kingdom breaking into the world?**
* **How can reflecting on Jesus' victory over the unclean spirit strengthen your resolve in facing personal or communal challenges?**

### FAQ
**Was the man physically harmed by the spirit's departure, given the description "torn him"?**

Answer: The Greek word "torn" (sparássō) indeed suggests a violent physical convulsion or seizure. While it indicates a traumatic, painful, and perhaps frightening experience for the man, it does not necessarily imply lasting physical injury. Instead, it vividly portrays the spirit's final, desperate act of malevolence and resistance before being forced out by Jesus' command. The immediate result was the man's complete liberation, not sustained harm. The tearing was a manifestation of the spirit's power and its unwilling submission, not a permanent injury to the man. The subsequent verses in [Mark 1:27-28](/mark/1-27-28 "Mark 1:27-28 - The People's Amazement") focus on the astonishment of the crowd at Jesus' authority, implying a complete and successful deliverance, not a lingering state of injury for the man.

**Why did the unclean spirit cry out with a loud voice before leaving?**

Answer: The spirit's loud cry serves multiple purposes. Theologically, it is a final, desperate protest and an unwilling acknowledgment of Jesus' supreme authority. It underscores the spirit's defeat and its forced expulsion, demonstrating that it did not leave willingly but was compelled by a power greater than itself. Dramatically, the "loud voice" adds to the intensity and public spectacle of the event, ensuring that all witnesses understood the reality of the spiritual battle and the undeniable power of Jesus. It also highlights the malevolent nature of the spirit, which seeks to cause chaos and fear even in its final moments of retreat. This public display of submission, though violent, confirmed Jesus' power to the onlookers, as seen in their reaction in [Mark 1:27](/mark/1-27 "Mark 1:27 - The People's Amazement").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Mark 1:26, with its vivid portrayal of Jesus' authoritative deliverance, is a powerful foretaste of His ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment. This dramatic exorcism is not merely an isolated miracle but a microcosm of Jesus' entire redemptive mission: to confront and utterly defeat the powers of darkness that hold humanity captive. The "unclean spirit" represents the dominion of sin and death, which entered the world through the fall and enslaved humanity. Jesus' command, "he came out of him," foreshadows His decisive victory over Satan and his kingdom, achieved definitively through His atoning death and glorious resurrection. Just as the man in the synagogue was freed from the immediate oppression of the spirit, so too does Christ's work on the cross liberate all who believe from the spiritual bondage of sin and the fear of death, as articulated in [Hebrews 2:14-15](/hebrews/2-14-15 "Hebrews 2:14-15 - Christ's Victory Over Death"). The tearing and loud cry of the spirit, though violent, ultimately signify its forced submission, mirroring the public triumph of Christ over "the rulers and authorities" whom He "disarmed" and "put to open shame" on the cross ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Spiritual Powers")). This event thus points to Jesus as the true liberator, the Son of God who appeared "to destroy the works of the devil" ([1 John 3:8](/1_john/3-8 "1 John 3:8 - Jesus Appeared to Destroy the Works of the Devil")), offering not just temporary relief but eternal freedom and new life in His kingdom.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Mark 9:26

And [the spirit] cried, and rent him sore, and came out of him: and he was as one dead; insomuch that many said, He is dead.

Mark 9:20

And they brought him unto him: and when he saw him, straightway the spirit tare him; and he fell on the ground, and wallowed foaming.

Luke 9:42

And as he was yet a coming, the devil threw him down, and tare [him]. And Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, and healed the child, and delivered him again to his father.

Luke 9:39

And, lo, a spirit taketh him, and he suddenly crieth out; and it teareth him that he foameth again, and bruising him hardly departeth from him.

Luke 11:22

But when a stronger than he shall come upon him, and overcome him, he taketh from him all his armour wherein he trusted, and divideth his spoils.