And at even, when the sun did set, they brought unto him all that were diseased, and them that were possessed with devils.
And {G1161} at {G1096} even {G3798}, when {G3753} the sun {G2246} did set {G1416}, they brought {G5342} unto {G4314} him {G846} all {G3956} that were {G2192} diseased {G2560}, and {G2532} them that were possessed with devils {G1139}.
That evening after sundown, they brought to Yeshua all who were ill or held in the power of demons,
That evening, after sunset, people brought to Jesus all who were sick and demon-possessed,
And at even, when the sun did set, they brought unto him all that were sick, and them that were possessed with demons.
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Matthew 8:16
When the even was come, they brought unto him many that were possessed with devils: and he cast out the spirits with [his] word, and healed all that were sick: -
Luke 4:40
Now when the sun was setting, all they that had any sick with divers diseases brought them unto him; and he laid his hands on every one of them, and healed them. -
Matthew 4:24
And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them. -
Mark 3:2
And they watched him, whether he would heal him on the sabbath day; that they might accuse him. -
Mark 1:21
And they went into Capernaum; and straightway on the sabbath day he entered into the synagogue, and taught.
Commentary on Mark 1:32 (KJV)
Mark 1:32 describes a pivotal moment in Jesus's early ministry in Capernaum, showcasing His immense popularity and the desperate need of the people for healing and deliverance. This verse immediately follows a day of intense teaching and healing, emphasizing Jesus's tireless compassion and supernatural authority.
Context
This verse takes place "at even, when the sun did set," a crucial detail for understanding the scene. Earlier that day, Jesus had taught with authority in the synagogue of Capernaum (Mark 1:21) and astonishingly healed a man with an unclean spirit (Mark 1:23-28). Immediately after, He went to Simon Peter's house and healed Peter's mother-in-law of a fever (Mark 1:29-31).
The specific timing—sunset—is significant because it marked the end of the Sabbath day. Jewish law prohibited carrying burdens or engaging in certain types of work, including extensive healing activities, on the Sabbath. Therefore, people waited until the Sabbath officially concluded at sunset to bring their sick and demon-possessed loved ones to Jesus. This demonstrates both their respect for the law and their overwhelming faith and urgency in seeking Jesus's healing power.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The KJV phrase "possessed with devils" translates the Greek word daimonizomenoi (δαιμονιζόμενοι), which literally means "demonized" or "those under the influence of demons." This term distinctly refers to individuals afflicted by evil spirits, differentiating their condition from physical illnesses, though sometimes symptoms overlapped. Jesus's ministry consistently demonstrated His power to cast out these demons, confirming His divine authority.
Practical Application
Mark 1:32 offers timeless encouragement. Just as the people of Capernaum brought their every ailment and spiritual burden to Jesus, we are invited to bring our physical sicknesses, emotional struggles, and spiritual battles to Him. Jesus remains the Great Physician and Deliverer, full of compassion and power. This verse reminds us that no problem is too great for Him, and He is always available to those who seek His help, regardless of the hour or our condition. It calls us to bring our whole selves, and those we care for, into His healing presence.