New Testament
Mark 5:13
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Jesus gave them permission. The unclean spirits came out of the man and entered the pigs. The entire herd — about 2,000 of them — stampeded down the steep bank into the sea and drowned.
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And forthwith Jesus gave them leave. And the unclean spirits went out, and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the sea, (they were about two thousand;) and were choked in the sea.
What Mark 5:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, Jesus encounters a man possessed by unclean spirits, which are often understood as demons. When Jesus commands the spirits to leave the man, they request to enter a herd of pigs nearby instead. Jesus grants their request, and the pigs, driven by the spirits, rush down a steep bank into the sea, where they drown. This event illustrates Jesus' authority over evil spirits and highlights the destructive nature of these forces. The dramatic outcome serves as a powerful demonstration of Jesus' power, not only to heal and restore individuals but also to confront and defeat evil. The loss of the pigs also raises questions about the value of human life versus livestock, emphasizing the seriousness of spiritual oppression and the lengths to which evil can go. This story is a vivid reminder of the spiritual battles that exist and the hope found in Jesus' ability to deliver and save those who are suffering.
How to apply Mark 5:13 to your life
This passage encourages us to recognize the reality of spiritual battles in our lives. It reminds us to seek Jesus' help in overcoming personal struggles and to trust in His power to bring healing and deliverance. We should also be mindful of the impact of our choices on ourselves and others.
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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Jesus
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 5:13 mean?
Mark 5:13 describes an event where Jesus commands unclean spirits to leave a man and enter a herd of pigs. The pigs then rush into the sea and drown, illustrating Jesus' authority over evil and the destructive nature of demonic forces.
What is the significance of the pigs in Mark 5:13?
The pigs in Mark 5:13 symbolize the destructive impact of evil. Their drowning emphasizes the seriousness of spiritual oppression and serves as a vivid demonstration of Jesus' power to confront and defeat evil.
What does 'unclean spirits' refer to in Mark 5:13?
In Mark 5:13, 'unclean spirits' refers to demons or evil entities that possess individuals, causing suffering and chaos. Their expulsion by Jesus highlights His authority over spiritual forces.
How does Mark 5:13 relate to spiritual warfare?
Mark 5:13 illustrates spiritual warfare by showing the conflict between Jesus and the unclean spirits. It highlights the need for divine intervention in overcoming evil and the importance of seeking Jesus for deliverance.
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