New Testament
Mark 5:23
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He pleaded desperately, "My little daughter is dying. Please come and place your hands on her so she'll be healed and live."
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And besought him greatly, saying, My little daughter lieth at the point of death: I pray thee, come and lay thy hands on her, that she may be healed; and she shall live.
What Mark 5:23 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a desperate father approaches Jesus, pleading for help because his young daughter is gravely ill. He expresses his urgency and deep concern for her life, asking Jesus to come and lay hands on her to heal her. This moment highlights the father's faith in Jesus' ability to heal and save his daughter. The act of laying hands was a common practice in healing, symbolizing the transfer of divine power. The father's emotional state reflects the love and desperation that parents often feel when their children are in danger. His request is not just for healing but for life itself, showing the profound bond between parent and child. This encounter sets the stage for a significant miracle, illustrating the themes of faith, desperation, and the power of Jesus to heal. It also emphasizes the importance of seeking help in times of crisis, particularly from those who can provide hope and healing.
How to apply Mark 5:23 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek help in times of crisis, especially from those who can provide hope and healing. It reminds us of the importance of faith and the power of prayer when facing difficult situations. Trusting in a higher power can bring comfort and strength.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Jairus' Daughter and a Woman Healed (Mark 5:21–43)
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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 5:23 mean?
Mark 5:23 describes a desperate father asking Jesus to heal his dying daughter. This verse highlights the father's urgent plea and faith in Jesus' healing power, emphasizing the deep bond between parent and child.
What is the significance of laying hands in Mark 5:23?
In Mark 5:23, laying hands on someone symbolizes the transfer of divine healing power. It was a common practice in biblical times, representing both a physical and spiritual connection during the healing process.
What does the father's plea reveal in Mark 5:23?
The father's plea in Mark 5:23 reveals his deep love and desperation for his daughter. It illustrates the emotional turmoil parents face when their children are in danger and their hope for healing through faith.
What themes are present in Mark 5:23?
Mark 5:23 presents themes of faith, desperation, healing, and parental love. It showcases the power of Jesus to perform miracles and the importance of seeking help in times of crisis.
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