Mark 5:29

Context

Mark 5:29 is a pivotal moment within the narrative of the woman with an issue of blood. This woman had suffered from a chronic hemorrhage for twelve years, rendering her ceremonially unclean according to Mosaic Law (Leviticus 15:19-30) and causing social isolation. Despite spending all her money on physicians, her condition only worsened. Her desperate act of touching Jesus' garment, believing it would heal her, was a profound demonstration of faith, occurring as Jesus was on His way to heal Jairus's daughter.

Key Themes

• Immediate and Tangible Healing: The word "straightway" (KJV) emphasizes the instantaneous nature of the healing. The woman immediately "felt in her body" that the long-standing "plague" had ceased. This physical sensation provided unmistakable evidence of the miracle.
• The Power of Faith: This verse beautifully illustrates how personal faith, even a quiet, desperate act, can connect with the divine power of Jesus. Her healing was not a random occurrence but a direct response to her conviction, as Jesus later confirms her faith in Mark 5:34.
• Jesus' Compassion and Authority: Even in a crowded setting, Jesus' power was active and responsive to individual need. He was not just a healer but one who knew when power had gone out of Him, demonstrating His divine awareness and authority over illness.

Linguistic Insights

• The term "straightway" (Greek: euthys or eutheōs) is a characteristic word in Mark's Gospel, appearing frequently to highlight the immediacy and urgency of events, particularly Jesus' actions. Here, it underscores the swiftness and certainty of God's intervention.
• "Fountain of her blood" (Greek: pēgē tou haimatos) is a vivid and poignant description of her chronic, persistent bleeding, emphasizing the deep-seated nature of her affliction.
• "Plague" (Greek: mastigos) refers to a severe affliction or scourge, highlighting the gravity and debilitating nature of her long-term suffering, which had plagued her for twelve years.

Practical Application

Mark 5:29 offers powerful encouragement for believers today. It reminds us that:

• God's Healing is Real: Just as the woman felt her healing, God's transformative power can bring about tangible change in our lives, whether physically, emotionally, or spiritually.
• Faith Connects Us to Power: Our faith, even when small or desperate, is a vital conduit to God's miraculous intervention. We are encouraged to approach Jesus with unwavering belief, no matter the duration or severity of our "plague."
• Jesus Cares About Our Suffering: This account highlights Jesus' deep compassion for those who suffer. He is attentive to our pain and responsive to our sincere cries for help, inviting us to come to Him with all our burdens.