Luke 8:26

Analysis & Commentary

And they arrived at the country of the Gadarenes, which is over against Galilee. This verse introduces one of the most dramatic exorcisms in the Gospels. The phrase "country of the Gadarenes" (Greek chōran tōn Gerasēnōn, χώραν τῶν Γερασηνῶν) locates the event in Gentile territory. Matthew calls it "Gergesenes" (8:28), Mark "Gadarenes" (5:1)—both referring to the Decapolis region east of the Sea of Galilee. The phrase "over against Galilee" (antiperan tēs Galilaias, ἀντιπέραν τῆς Γαλιλαίας) means "opposite" or "across from," emphasizing Jesus' intentional crossing from Jewish to Gentile territory.

This geographical detail is theologically significant. Jesus deliberately enters pagan territory where Jewish law held no sway, where swine were raised (forbidden to Jews, Leviticus 11:7), and where demon possession appeared more overt. The crossing itself demonstrates Christ's mission extending beyond Israel to all nations (Luke 2:32, 24:47). His authority over demons would be displayed not merely in synagogues but in pagan strongholds.

The dramatic storm just survived (vv. 22-25) makes the arrival more significant—Jesus commanded them through perilous waters to reach this specific place, for this specific person. Divine providence orchestrates circumstances to bring salvation to one man whom society had abandoned. The verb "arrived" (katepleusan, κατέπλευσαν) suggests purposeful landing after difficult voyage, not accidental beaching.

Historical Context

The Decapolis was a confederation of ten Greek-speaking cities established after Alexander the Great's conquests, predominantly Gentile with Roman governance. Gadara (modern Umm Qais, Jordan) was one of these cities, located about six miles southeast of the Sea of Galilee. The territory included rural areas with steep hillsides descending to the lake—precisely the geography described in verse 33 where swine rushed down into water.

First-century Jewish-Gentile relations were fraught with tension. Observant Jews avoided Gentile territories to prevent ritual defilement. That Jesus intentionally enters this region demonstrates His mission's universal scope. The presence of pig herds confirms Gentile territory—Jews would never raise swine. Archaeological evidence confirms extensive Gentile settlement in this region during the first century, with temples to Greek and Roman gods.

Early church tradition identified this miracle as occurring near Kursi (Gergesa) on the eastern shore, where steep cliffs descend directly to the water. The location's isolation made it suitable for the demoniac's exile. For Luke's Gentile audience (Theophilus, Acts 1:1), this account demonstrated that Christ's saving power extended beyond Jewish boundaries to the entire world.

Questions for Reflection

• Why did Jesus intentionally cross treacherous waters to reach Gentile territory for one demon-possessed man?
• How does this geographical movement from Jewish to Gentile territory anticipate the gospel's expansion to all nations?
• What does Jesus' willingness to enter ritually defiling territory teach about His priorities and mission?