New Testament
Mark 7:26
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
She was a Greek woman, Syrophoenician by birth. She begged Jesus to drive the demon out of her daughter.
Compare translations
The woman was a Greek, a Syrophenician by nation; and she besought him that he would cast forth the devil out of her daughter.
What Mark 7:26 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we encounter a Greek woman from the region of Syrophoenicia, which is located in modern-day Lebanon. She approaches Jesus with a desperate plea for help, asking Him to cast out a demon that is tormenting her daughter. This moment highlights her faith and determination, as she seeks out Jesus despite cultural barriers and her status as a Gentile. The woman's background as a Greek signifies that she is not part of the Jewish community, yet she recognizes Jesus' authority and power. Her act of begging shows her deep concern for her daughter’s well-being and her belief that Jesus can provide the healing she desperately needs. This encounter illustrates the theme of faith transcending cultural boundaries, as well as the compassion of Jesus towards those in need, regardless of their background. It sets the stage for a significant interaction that reveals both the woman's faith and Jesus' mission to reach all people, not just the Jews.
How to apply Mark 7:26 to your life
This verse encourages us to approach Jesus with our needs, no matter our background or circumstances. It reminds us that faith can break down barriers and that Jesus is willing to help those who earnestly seek Him. We should be persistent in prayer for ourselves and others.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from John the Apostle's story: Mending Their Nets (Mark 1:19–20)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
John the Apostle
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Mark 7:26
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Mark 7:26
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 7:26 mean?
Mark 7:26 describes a Greek woman from Syrophoenicia who pleads with Jesus to cast out a demon from her daughter. This highlights her faith and determination to seek help from Jesus despite cultural differences.
What is the significance of the woman's background in Mark 7:26?
The woman's Greek and Syrophoenician background emphasizes that she is a Gentile, not part of the Jewish community. Her faith in Jesus shows that His compassion and healing extend beyond cultural and ethnic boundaries.
How does Mark 7:26 relate to the theme of faith?
Mark 7:26 exemplifies the theme of faith by showing that the woman's belief in Jesus transcends her cultural background. Her persistence in seeking help demonstrates that faith can lead to healing and inclusion.
What can we learn from Mark 7:26 about approaching Jesus?
Mark 7:26 teaches us that we can approach Jesus with our needs regardless of our background. It encourages persistence in prayer and faith, reminding us that Jesus is compassionate and willing to help those who earnestly seek Him.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.