Mark 5:23
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.
Mark 5:23 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, we see a desperate father coming to Jesus and pleading for him to heal his daughter who is on the brink of death. The father's faith in Jesus' power to heal is evident as he implores Jesus to come and lay his hands on his daughter so that she may be healed. This verse demonstrates the power of faith and belief in Jesus' ability to perform miracles. The father's earnest plea for help serves as a reminder of the importance of coming to Jesus with our needs and trusting in his ability to bring healing and restoration. As readers engage with this verse, they are encouraged to approach Jesus with their own requests for healing, knowing that he has the power to heal and bring new life.
Theological Overview
Here, we see a powerful example of faith and desperation as a father comes to Jesus, pleading for him to come and heal his dying daughter. The word "besought" indicates a sense of urgency and persistence in his request. The word "greatly" emphasizes the intensity of his plea. The father's belief in Jesus' healing power is evident as he asks for Jesus to simply lay his hands on his daughter, trusting that this act alone will bring about her healing. The word "healed" suggests a complete restoration of health, while the assurance that "she shall live" demonstrates the father's unwavering faith in Jesus' ability to perform miracles. Through this verse, we are reminded of the importance of faith in approaching Jesus for our needs, trusting in his power to bring about healing and restoration in our lives.
Mark 5:23 in other translations
American Standard Version
and beseecheth him much, saying, My little daughter is at the point of death: [I pray thee], that thou come and lay thy hands on her, that she may be made whole, and live.
World English Bible
and begged him much, saying, “My little daughter is at the point of death. Please come and lay your hands on her, that she may be made healthy, and live.”
Douay-Rheims
And he besought him much, saying: My daughter is at the point of death, come, lay thy hand upon her, that she may be safe, and may live.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And besought him instantly, saying, My litle daughter lyeth at point of death: I pray thee that thou wouldest come and lay thine hands on her, that she may be healed, and liue.