New Testament
Mark 5:12
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The demons pleaded with him, "Send us into the pigs! Let us go into them."
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And all the devils besought him, saying, Send us into the swine, that we may enter into them.
What Mark 5:12 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the demons, who had possessed a man, begged Jesus to allow them to enter a herd of pigs instead of being sent away. This request highlights the demons' desire to remain in a physical form and continue their influence. The pigs symbolize a lesser form of life compared to humans, and the demons' plea shows their desperation and fear of being cast out completely. Jesus, demonstrating His authority over evil spirits, grants their request. This act not only reveals the power of Jesus over demonic forces but also sets the stage for the dramatic events that follow, where the pigs rush into the sea and drown. This moment illustrates the conflict between good and evil, and the lengths to which evil will go to maintain its presence. It also raises questions about the nature of spiritual warfare and the consequences of demonic possession.
How to apply Mark 5:12 to your life
This verse reminds us of the reality of spiritual battles in our lives. We should seek Jesus' authority in our struggles against negative influences and temptations. By inviting Him into our situations, we can find freedom and healing from what binds us.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Freeing a Man from Demons (Mark 5:1–20)
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Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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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 5:12 mean?
Mark 5:12 describes a moment when demons possessing a man plead with Jesus to allow them to enter a herd of pigs instead of being cast out. This highlights their desperation to remain in a physical form and continue their influence.
What is the significance of the pigs in Mark 5:12?
The pigs in Mark 5:12 symbolize a lesser form of life compared to humans, representing the demons' desire to inhabit something rather than face complete removal. Their request to enter the pigs shows their fear of being cast out entirely.
What does this verse reveal about Jesus' authority?
This verse illustrates Jesus' authority over evil spirits, as He grants the demons' request to enter the pigs. It demonstrates His power to control and command even the forces of darkness.
What happens after the demons enter the pigs in Mark 5:12?
After the demons enter the pigs, the herd rushes down a steep bank into the sea and drowns. This dramatic event emphasizes the destructive nature of evil and the consequences of demonic possession.
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