Mark 8:2

I have compassion on the multitude, because they have now been with me three days, and have nothing to eat:

I have compassion {G4697} on {G1909} the multitude {G3793}, because {G3754} they have {G4357} now {G2235} been {G4357} with me {G3427} three {G5140} days {G2250}, and {G2532} have {G2192} nothing {G3756}{G5101} to eat {G5315}:

"I feel sorry for these people, because they have been with me three days, and now they have nothing to eat.

“I have compassion for this crowd, because they have already been with Me three days and have nothing to eat.

I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days, and have nothing to eat:

Commentary

Mark 8:2 (KJV) records Jesus' heartfelt concern for the large crowd that had been following Him for an extended period. This verse serves as the immediate prelude to the second miraculous feeding of the multitude, demonstrating Jesus' profound empathy and divine power.

Context

This verse is situated in the region of the Decapolis, primarily Gentile territory, highlighting Jesus' ministry extending beyond traditional Jewish boundaries. The crowd described here had been with Jesus for three days, indicating their sustained devotion and eagerness to hear His teaching. This extended time away from their homes naturally led to a severe lack of food, putting them in a vulnerable position. The situation echoes, yet is distinct from, the first miraculous feeding of the five thousand, which occurred in a different location and involved different numbers, underscoring the consistent nature of Jesus' compassion and provision.

Key Themes

  • Jesus' Compassion (Splagchnizomai): The central theme of this verse is Jesus' deep, visceral empathy. The Greek word used for "compassion" is splagchnizomai (σπλαγχνίζομαι), which literally means to be moved in one's bowels or intestines. It signifies a profound, gut-level feeling of pity and sympathy that drives Jesus to act. This isn't just a casual concern but a deep identification with the suffering of the people.
  • Divine Provision for Physical Needs: Jesus' compassion is not merely emotional; it leads to action. His concern for the multitude's hunger sets the stage for the miracle of feeding the four thousand, illustrating His ability to provide for both spiritual and physical necessities. This demonstrates that God cares about the practical, everyday struggles of humanity.
  • Jesus' Humanity and Divinity: The verse showcases Jesus' perfect blend of humanity and divinity. His compassion highlights His genuine human empathy, while the impending miracle reveals His divine power to meet needs beyond human capability.

Linguistic Insights

The term splagchnizomai (σπλαγχνίζομαι), translated as "compassion," is a powerful word in the New Testament. It is frequently used to describe Jesus' profound emotional response to human suffering, whether it be sickness, spiritual blindness, or physical hunger. This deep-seated feeling often precedes a miraculous act of healing or provision, as it does here and in the parable of the Good Samaritan.

Practical Application

Mark 8:2 reminds us that Jesus is attentive to our basic needs, not just our spiritual ones. His compassion serves as a model for believers today. We are called to cultivate a similar empathy for those around us who are in need, whether physically, emotionally, or spiritually. Just as Jesus was moved to act, so too should His followers be moved to serve and provide for others, trusting in God's ultimate provision and guidance in our efforts.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Matthew 9:36

    But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.

  • Micah 7:19

    He will turn again, he will have compassion upon us; he will subdue our iniquities; and thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea.

  • Psalms 145:15

    The eyes of all wait upon thee; and thou givest them their meat in due season.

  • Psalms 103:13

    Like as a father pitieth [his] children, [so] the LORD pitieth them that fear him.

  • Hebrews 4:15

    For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as [we are, yet] without sin.

  • Mark 1:41

    And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth [his] hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, I will; be thou clean.

  • Mark 5:19

    Howbeit Jesus suffered him not, but saith unto him, Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee.