New Testament
Mark 3:1
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Jesus went into the synagogue again, and there was a man with a withered hand.
Compare translations
And he entered again into the synagogue; and there was a man there which had a withered hand.
What Mark 3:1 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus returns to the synagogue, a place of worship and teaching for the Jewish community. The focus is on a man who has a withered hand, which likely means his hand is paralyzed or shriveled. This condition not only affects his physical ability but also his social standing, as people with disabilities were often marginalized. Jesus' presence in the synagogue indicates His commitment to teaching and healing, showing that He cares for those who are suffering. The mention of the withered hand sets the stage for a significant healing miracle that will demonstrate Jesus' authority and compassion. This moment highlights the tension between Jesus and the religious leaders, who often prioritized rules over mercy. It serves as a reminder that Jesus came to restore and heal, both physically and spiritually, and that He challenges societal norms that exclude those in need.
How to apply Mark 3:1 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize and support those who are marginalized or suffering in our communities. It challenges us to act with compassion and to prioritize helping others over strict adherence to rules. We should be open to opportunities to bring healing and hope to those in need.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Mark 3:1
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Mark 3:1
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Mark
- Author
- John Mark
- Written
- Around AD 55-65
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Roman and Gentile Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Mark 3:1 mean?
Mark 3:1 describes Jesus entering a synagogue where He encounters a man with a withered hand. This verse highlights Jesus' compassion for those who are suffering and sets the stage for a healing miracle.
What is the significance of the withered hand in Mark 3:1?
The withered hand symbolizes physical disability and social marginalization. It illustrates the challenges faced by those with disabilities and emphasizes Jesus' mission to heal and restore dignity to the marginalized.
How does Mark 3:1 relate to themes of compassion?
Mark 3:1 emphasizes compassion by showing Jesus' willingness to help a man in need, despite societal rules. It encourages readers to prioritize mercy and support for those who are suffering.
What lesson can we learn from Mark 3:1?
From Mark 3:1, we learn the importance of compassion and the need to help those who are marginalized. It challenges us to act with kindness and to prioritize healing over strict adherence to rules.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.