New Testament

Mark 5:11

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, we see a large herd of pigs feeding on a hillside near the mountains.

Author
John Mark
Written
Around AD 55-65
Genre
Gospel
Original Audience
Roman and Gentile Christians
CBTClear Bible Translation

Nearby on the hillside, a large herd of pigs was feeding.

KJVKing James Version

Now there was there nigh unto the mountains a great herd of swine feeding.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, we see a large herd of pigs feeding on a hillside near the mountains. This setting is significant because it highlights the contrast between the Jewish people, who considered pigs unclean and avoided them, and the Gentile region where this event takes place. The presence of the pigs indicates that Jesus is in a non-Jewish area, which is important for understanding the broader mission of Jesus to reach all people. The pigs also play a crucial role in the story that follows, where Jesus encounters a man possessed by demons. The demons request to be sent into the pigs, leading to a dramatic and powerful demonstration of Jesus' authority over evil. This verse sets the stage for the miraculous events that unfold, emphasizing themes of spiritual warfare, redemption, and the breaking of cultural barriers. It invites readers to reflect on how Jesus interacts with those considered outsiders and how His compassion extends beyond traditional boundaries.

How to apply Mark 5:11 to your life

This verse encourages us to recognize that Jesus reaches out to all people, regardless of their background or past. We should be open to sharing His love and message with those who may seem different or unclean to us. Embracing diversity in our communities can lead to transformative experiences.

Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Mark 5:11 mean?

Mark 5:11 describes a large herd of pigs feeding on a hillside, indicating that Jesus is in a Gentile region where pigs are common. This setting contrasts with Jewish customs, highlighting Jesus' mission to reach all people, including those considered outsiders.

What is the significance of the pigs in Mark 5:11?

The pigs in Mark 5:11 symbolize the cultural barriers between Jews and Gentiles. Their presence sets the stage for the following events where Jesus demonstrates His authority over evil, showing that His compassion extends beyond traditional boundaries.

Why are pigs mentioned in Mark 5:11?

Pigs are mentioned in Mark 5:11 to highlight the setting of Jesus' encounter with a demon-possessed man in a Gentile area. This detail underscores the cultural differences and prepares readers for the miraculous events that follow.

How does Mark 5:11 relate to Jesus' mission?

Mark 5:11 relates to Jesus' mission by showing His willingness to engage with those outside Jewish customs. The presence of the pigs signifies His outreach to all people, emphasizing inclusivity and compassion.

The Book of Mark
Book Summary

The Book of Mark

Mark 1: John the Baptist and the Beginning of Jesus's Ministry

John the Baptist appears in the wilderness and preaches a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. People from Judaea and Jerusalem come to him, confess their sins, and are baptized in the river Jordan. John wears camel's hair and a leather belt and eats locusts and wild honey. He announces that someone stronger than he is coming after him and says he is not worthy to stoop down and untie his sandals. He baptizes with water, but the one coming will baptize with the Holy Ghost.

Premium

Unlock the full Mark summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Mark — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 16 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Mark summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

or

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.