New Testament
Matthew 9:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
She had told herself, "If I can just touch his clothes, I'll be healed."
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For she said within herself, If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole.
What Matthew 9:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a woman suffering from a long-term illness believes that merely touching the hem of Jesus' garment will heal her. Her faith is so strong that she thinks this simple act will restore her health. This reflects her desperation and hope, showing that she has heard of Jesus' miraculous powers. The act of touching his clothes symbolizes her belief in his ability to heal, emphasizing the importance of faith in receiving help. This moment highlights the connection between faith and healing, illustrating that sometimes, it is not just the act itself but the belief behind it that brings about change. The woman's internal dialogue reveals her determination and the lengths she is willing to go to find relief from her suffering. Her story encourages others to seek help and to have faith in the possibility of healing, no matter how dire the situation may seem.
How to apply Matthew 9:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to have faith in our struggles, reminding us that even small acts of belief can lead to significant change. When facing challenges, we should seek help and trust that our faith can lead to healing and restoration in our lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Jairus' Daughter and a Woman Healed (Matthew 9:18–26)
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Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 9:21 mean?
Matthew 9:21 describes a woman who believes that touching Jesus' garment will heal her. This reflects her deep faith and desperation, showing that she trusts in Jesus' power to restore her health.
What is the significance of touching Jesus' garment in Matthew 9:21?
Touching Jesus' garment symbolizes the woman's faith in his ability to heal. It highlights the idea that even a small act of belief can lead to significant healing and change in one's life.
What can we learn from the woman in Matthew 9:21?
The woman in Matthew 9:21 teaches us about the power of faith and determination. Her story encourages us to seek help and believe in the possibility of healing, even in desperate situations.
How does Matthew 9:21 relate to the theme of miracles?
Matthew 9:21 illustrates the theme of miracles by showcasing how faith can lead to miraculous healing. The woman's belief in Jesus' power emphasizes that miracles often occur when individuals trust in something greater than themselves.
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