Mark 10:16

And he took them up in his arms, put [his] hands upon them, and blessed them.

And {G2532} he took {G1723} them {G846} up in his arms {G1723}, put {G5087} his hands {G5495} upon {G1909} them {G846}, and blessed {G2127} them {G846}.

And he took them in his arms, laid his hands on them, and made a b'rakhah over them.

And He took the children in His arms, placed His hands on them, and blessed them.

And he took them in his arms, and blessed them, laying his hands upon them.

Commentary

Context

Mark 10:16 concludes a significant interaction where people were bringing children to Jesus for Him to touch and bless. The disciples had previously rebuked those bringing children to Jesus (Mark 10:13), prompting Jesus' strong response about the nature of the Kingdom of God (Mark 10:14-15). Culturally, children held little social status in ancient society, making Jesus' actions particularly radical and counter-cultural. This verse highlights Jesus' tender, personal engagement with the children, directly contrasting with the disciples' initial dismissive attitude.

Key Themes

  • Jesus' Compassion and Love: This verse beautifully illustrates Jesus' deep affection and personal care for the most vulnerable. He doesn't just tolerate children; He actively embraces them, demonstrating a love that transcends social norms.
  • The Value of Children in God's Eyes: By taking them into His arms and blessing them, Jesus elevates children to a position of immense value. He shows that every individual, regardless of age or status, is precious in the sight of God.
  • Nature of the Kingdom of God: Following His teaching in the preceding verses, this act visually reinforces Jesus' message that the Kingdom of God belongs to those with child-like humility, trust, and dependence. The blessing is a tangible affirmation of those who embody these qualities.
  • Divine Authority and Blessing: Jesus' actions of taking the children, laying hands upon them, and blessing them signify His divine authority and power to bestow grace and favor. This was not a mere social gesture but a spiritual impartation.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "blessed them" comes from the Greek word kateulogēsen (κατευλόγησεν), an intensive form of eulogeō. This emphasizes a profound and sincere blessing, more than just speaking well of someone. It denotes invoking divine favor upon them. The physical actions—"took them up in his arms" and "put his hands upon them"—underscore the intimate, personal, and tangible nature of this blessing, making it a powerful demonstration of Jesus' care.

Practical Application

Mark 10:16 offers several profound lessons for believers today:

  • Embrace Child-like Faith: Just as children are dependent and trusting, this passage reminds us of the importance of humility and dependence in our faith journey before God.
  • Value All People: Jesus' example challenges us to see and value every individual, especially the vulnerable, the marginalized, and those often overlooked in society.
  • Welcome and Nurture: We are called to create environments where all, especially children, feel welcomed, loved, and spiritually nurtured within faith communities.
  • Receive God's Blessing: This verse assures us of Jesus' desire to draw us close, embrace us, and impart His blessing upon our lives, just as He did for these children.
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Cross-References

  • Isaiah 40:11 (3 votes)

    He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry [them] in his bosom, [and] shall gently lead those that are with young.

  • Mark 9:36 (3 votes)

    And he took a child, and set him in the midst of them: and when he had taken him in his arms, he said unto them,

  • Genesis 48:14 (2 votes)

    And Israel stretched out his right hand, and laid [it] upon Ephraim's head, who [was] the younger, and his left hand upon Manasseh's head, guiding his hands wittingly; for Manasseh [was] the firstborn.

  • Genesis 48:16 (2 votes)

    The Angel which redeemed me from all evil, bless the lads; and let my name be named on them, and the name of my fathers Abraham and Isaac; and let them grow into a multitude in the midst of the earth.

  • Deuteronomy 28:3 (2 votes)

    Blessed [shalt] thou [be] in the city, and blessed [shalt] thou [be] in the field.

  • Luke 2:28 (2 votes)

    Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,

  • Luke 2:34 (2 votes)

    And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this [child] is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against;