Mark 5:6

New Testament Gospel ASV (1901)

What does Mark 5:6 say?

The American Standard Version records this verse as: “And when he saw Jesus from afar, he ran and worshipped him;” Read the surrounding verses and the named sources below before drawing broader conclusions.

The verse

And when he saw Jesus from afar, he ran and worshipped him;
Mark 5:6 — American Standard Version

Context — Mark 5

American Standard Version (1901) — public domain. Click any verse for its study page.
6And when he saw Jesus from afar, he ran and worshipped him;

What do historical commentaries say?

John Gill's Exposition
John Gill (1697–1771) · Exposition of the Old and New Testament · 18th-century historical commentary
“But when he saw Jesus afar off, etc..] For it seems the tombs among which this man dwelt, were at some distance from the sea shore: wherefore when it is said, (<410502>Mark 5:2), that this man met Jesus, as soon as he came out of the ship: the meaning that he then came forth to meet him, as he might do upon sight of persons landing afar off; though he might not know then, who Jesus was: but coming nearer, and perceiving who he was, such was the power of Christ over the devils in him, that though sore against their wills, they obliged him to move on speedily towards him; so that he ran and worshipped him: he made all imaginable haste to him; and when he came up to him, fell down at his feet…”
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Barnes' Notes
Albert Barnes (1798–1870) · Notes on the Whole Bible · 19th-century historical commentary
“See this account of the demoniacs fully explained in the notes at Matthew 8:28-34. Mark 5:4 He had been often bound with fetters and chains - Efforts had been made to confine him, but his great strength - his strength increased by his malady - had prevented it. There often appears to be a great increase of strength produced by insanity, and what is here stated in regard to this maniac often occurs in Palestine and elsewhere now. Dr. Thomson (“The Land and the Book,” vol. i. p. 213) says respecting this case: “There are some very similar at the present day - furious and dangerous maniacs, who wander about the mountains, and sleep in tombs and caves. In their worst paroxysms they are quite…”
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Tyndale Open Study Notes
Tyndale House Publishers · Tyndale Open Study Notes · Modern study notes
“5:6-8 Despite the man’s horrible condition, Jesus’ coming provided him a glimmer of hope; he ran and knelt before Jesus, seeking help. • Son of the Most High God: Evil spirits know Jesus’ true identity (1:24, 34; 3:11). • There was no struggle; Jesus was in charge and the evil spirit obeyed the Master. Torture is the final judgment awaiting evil spirits (Matt 8:29; Luke 8:31).”
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Treasury of Scriptural Knowledge
R. A. Torrey and contributors · The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge · Cross-reference reference work
“he ran: Psa 66:3 \*marg. Psa 72:9; Luk 4:41; Act 16:17; Jam 2:19 Mark 5:7”
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Related study paths

Sources and verification