New Testament
Mark 5:41
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He took the girl by the hand and said, "Talitha cumi!" — which means, "Little girl, I'm telling you, get up!"
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And he took the damsel by the hand, and said unto her, Talitha cumi; which is, being interpreted, Damsel, I say unto thee, arise.
What Mark 5:41 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus approaches a young girl who has died and gently takes her by the hand. He speaks to her in Aramaic, saying "Talitha cumi," which translates to "Little girl, I say to you, get up!" This moment highlights Jesus' authority over death and His compassion for those in distress. By addressing her as "little girl," He shows tenderness and care, emphasizing that she is not just a patient but a beloved child. The act of taking her hand signifies connection and reassurance. This miracle demonstrates Jesus' power to restore life and hope, illustrating His divine nature and the belief that He can bring healing and revival in seemingly hopeless situations. The response of the girl, who immediately rises and walks, serves as a powerful testament to faith and the transformative power of Jesus' words. This event not only reassures the grieving parents but also serves as a profound lesson about faith and the possibility of new beginnings.
How to apply Mark 5:41 to your life
This verse encourages us to have faith in Jesus' power to bring life and hope into our situations. When faced with despair, we can trust that He can revive our spirits and circumstances. We should also extend compassion to those in distress, just as Jesus did.
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 'Talitha cumi' mean in Mark 5:41?
In Mark 5:41, 'Talitha cumi' is an Aramaic phrase that translates to 'Little girl, I say to you, get up!' This phrase is spoken by Jesus as He raises a young girl from the dead, demonstrating His authority over death and His compassionate nature.
What is the significance of Jesus taking the girl's hand?
Jesus taking the girl's hand symbolizes connection and reassurance. It shows His tender care for her and emphasizes that she is not just a subject of a miracle but a beloved child. This act highlights the personal nature of His ministry and His ability to bring comfort in distressing situations.
How does Mark 5:41 illustrate Jesus' authority?
Mark 5:41 illustrates Jesus' authority by showcasing His power over death. When He commands the girl to rise, she immediately responds, demonstrating that His words have the power to bring life. This moment reinforces the belief in Jesus as the Son of God who can perform miracles and restore hope.
What can we learn from the girl's response to Jesus' command?
The girl's immediate response to Jesus' command to rise serves as a powerful example of faith. It encourages believers to trust in Jesus' words and His ability to transform their lives. Her revival symbolizes new beginnings and the hope that can be found even in seemingly hopeless situations.
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