New Testament
Mark 7:33
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, Jesus demonstrates his compassion and personal approach to healing.
- Author
- John Mark
- Written
- Around AD 55-65
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Roman and Gentile Christians
Jesus took the man away from the crowd to be alone with him. He put his fingers in the man's ears, then spit and touched the man's tongue.
And he took him aside from the multitude, and put his fingers into his ears, and he spit, and touched his tongue;
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, Jesus demonstrates his compassion and personal approach to healing. By taking the man away from the crowd, he creates a private moment, showing that he values individual connection. The act of putting his fingers in the man's ears and touching his tongue signifies a direct engagement with the man's disabilities. The use of spit, which may seem unusual, was a common practice in ancient healing rituals, symbolizing the transfer of healing power. This intimate interaction highlights Jesus' authority over physical ailments and his desire to restore not just the man's hearing and speech, but also his dignity. The overall message emphasizes that Jesus cares deeply for individuals and meets them where they are, addressing their specific needs with love and attention.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Mark 7:33 to your life
This passage encourages us to seek personal encounters with Jesus in our own lives. Just as Jesus took the time to connect with the man, we should also take time to connect with others, offering compassion and support. It reminds us that healing can be a personal journey, requiring patience and understanding.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Mark 7:33 mean?
Mark 7:33 describes Jesus healing a deaf and mute man by taking him aside from the crowd and using physical touch. This act shows Jesus' personal approach to healing and his compassion for individual needs.
What is the significance of Jesus touching the man's ears and tongue in Mark 7:33?
In Mark 7:33, Jesus touching the man's ears and tongue symbolizes a direct engagement with his disabilities. It highlights the intimate nature of the healing process and Jesus' authority over physical ailments.
Why did Jesus take the man away from the crowd in Mark 7:33?
Jesus took the man away from the crowd to create a private moment, emphasizing the importance of personal connection and individual attention in the healing process.
What does the use of spit in Mark 7:33 represent?
The use of spit in Mark 7:33 reflects common ancient healing practices, symbolizing the transfer of healing power. It illustrates the unique methods Jesus used to convey his authority and compassion.

The Book of Mark
Mark 1: John the Baptist and the Beginning of Jesus's Ministry
John the Baptist appears in the wilderness and preaches a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. People from Judaea and Jerusalem come to him, confess their sins, and are baptized in the river Jordan. John wears camel's hair and a leather belt and eats locusts and wild honey. He announces that someone stronger than he is coming after him and says he is not worthy to stoop down and untie his sandals. He baptizes with water, but the one coming will baptize with the Holy Ghost.
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