Mark Chapter 1 · Verse 21
And they went into Capernaum; and straightway on the sabbath day he entered into the synagogue, and taught.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 13
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
εἰς
into
G1519
εἰς
into
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
3 of 13
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
Καπερναούμ
Capernaum
G2584
Καπερναούμ
Capernaum
Strong's:
G2584
Word #:
4 of 13
capernaum (i.e., caphanachum), a place in palestine
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
5 of 13
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τοῖς
G3588
τοῖς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
σάββασιν
on the sabbath day
G4521
σάββασιν
on the sabbath day
Strong's:
G4521
Word #:
8 of 13
the sabbath (i.e., shabbath), or day of weekly repose from secular avocations (also the observance or institution itself); by extension, a se'nnight,
εἰς
into
G1519
εἰς
into
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
10 of 13
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
τὴν
G3588
τὴν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
11 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Mark 6:2And when the sabbath day was come, he began to teach in the synagogue: and many hearing him were astonished, saying, From whence hath this man these things? and what wisdom is this which is given unto him, that even such mighty works are wrought by his hands?Mark 1:39And he preached in their synagogues throughout all Galilee, and cast out devils.Matthew 4:23And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.Acts 17:2And Paul, as his manner was, went in unto them, and three sabbath days reasoned with them out of the scriptures,Acts 18:4And he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks.Matthew 4:13And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim:
Historical Context
Capernaum was prosperous fishing town on Sea of Galilee northwest shore. Archaeological excavations uncovered synagogue foundations likely site where Jesus taught. First-century synagogues were community centers for Torah reading prayer instruction. Any qualified male could be invited to teach. Jesus used these opportunities to proclaim kingdom message. His Capernaum ministry included healing Peter mother-in-law casting out demons healing paralytic calling Matthew many miracles. Jesus later pronounced judgment on Capernaum for unbelief despite witnessing His works.
Questions for Reflection
- Why did Jesus prioritize teaching in His ministry?
- How does Jesus use of existing religious structures inform Christian engagement with culture?
Analysis & Commentary
They went into Capernaum and straightway on sabbath he entered synagogue and taught. Capernaum becomes Jesus ministry headquarters base for Galilean work. Straightway emphasizes immediate action Jesus wasted no time beginning public ministry. Entering synagogue on sabbath shows Jesus respect for Jewish institutions despite conflict with religious leaders. He taught indicates authoritative instruction not mere attendance. Jesus teaching ministry was central proclamation preceded miracles. Reformed theology emphasizes primacy of Word ministry preaching teaching essential to church mission.