Mark 5:4

Because that he had been often bound with fetters and chains, and the chains had been plucked asunder by him, and the fetters broken in pieces: neither could any [man] tame him.

Because {G1223} that he {G846} had been often {G4178} bound {G1210} with fetters {G3976} and {G2532} chains {G254}, and {G2532} the chains {G254} had been plucked asunder {G1288} by {G5259} him {G846}, and {G2532} the fetters {G3976} broken in pieces {G4937}: neither {G2532} could {G2480} any man tame {G1150} him {G846}{G3762}.

He had often been chained hand and foot, but he would snap the chains and break the irons off his feet, and no one was strong enough to control him.

Though he was often bound with chains and shackles, he had broken the chains and shattered the shackles. Now there was no one with the strength to subdue him.

because that he had been often bound with fetters and chains, and the chains had been rent asunder by him, and the fetters broken in pieces: and no man had strength to tame him.

Commentary

Mark 5:4 continues the dramatic introduction of the demon-possessed man from the region of the Gerasenes. This verse emphasizes the extreme and uncontrollable nature of his condition, highlighting the futility of human attempts to subdue him.

Context

This verse is part of the narrative immediately following Jesus calming the storm on the Sea of Galilee (Mark 4:39). Upon reaching the other side, Jesus is immediately met by a man suffering from severe demonic possession. Verses 2 and 3 describe his dwelling among the tombs and his wild, unrestrained behavior. Mark 5:4 specifically details the repeated, failed efforts of people to bind him, underscoring the man's superhuman strength and the desperation of the situation. This sets a stark contrast, preparing the reader for the unparalleled authority of Jesus Christ over such powerful spiritual forces.

Key Themes

  • Human Helplessness vs. Divine Power: The verse powerfully illustrates the limitations of human strength and methods against spiritual bondage. No amount of physical restraint or human effort could control this man, emphasizing that his problem was beyond human solution. This helplessness highlights the necessity and supremacy of Jesus' divine power.
  • The Destructive Nature of Demonic Influence: The broken chains and shattered fetters symbolize the terrifying and destructive power that evil spirits can wield over a person, leading to a life of isolation, torment, and wildness, as described in the preceding verses.
  • Anticipation of Christ's Authority: By presenting the man as utterly untamable by human means, the narrative builds anticipation for the profound and unique authority Jesus is about to demonstrate over the demons, setting the stage for a miraculous deliverance (Mark 5:8).

Linguistic Insights

The KJV uses strong imagery to convey the man's power. The phrase "plucked asunder" comes from the Greek word diaspao (διασπάω), meaning "to tear apart" or "to break through," indicating a violent and complete destruction of the bonds. Similarly, "fetters broken in pieces" uses syntribo (συντρίβω), meaning "to break into pieces" or "to shatter," further emphasizing the total demolition of any restraint. The phrase "neither could any [man] tame him" uses damazo (δαμάζω), which is often used in the context of taming wild animals (as in James 3:7), vividly portraying the man's uncontrollable and feral state under demonic influence.

Practical Application

Mark 5:4 serves as a powerful reminder that some of life's deepest struggles—especially those of a spiritual nature—are beyond our human capacity to solve. When faced with seemingly insurmountable problems, whether personal bondage, destructive habits, or spiritual oppression, this verse points us to the ultimate authority of Jesus Christ. It teaches us that true freedom and deliverance come not from human strength or ingenuity, but from the divine intervention of the One who holds all power over the unseen forces of evil. It encourages us to look to Christ for situations where we feel utterly helpless, knowing that what is impossible with man is possible with God (Mark 10:27).

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Cross-References

  • James 3:7

    For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind:

  • James 3:8

    But the tongue can no man tame; [it is] an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.
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