Mark 11:8

And many spread their garments in the way: and others cut down branches off the trees, and strawed them in the way.

Word-by-Word Analysis

πολλοὶ

G4183

many

(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely

δὲ

G1161

And

but, and, etc

τὰ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἱμάτια

G2440

garments

a dress (inner or outer)

αὐτῶν

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

ἐστρώννυον

G4766

spread

to "strew," i.e., spread (as a carpet or couch)

εἰς

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

τὴν

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ὁδόν·

G3598

the way

a road; by implication, a progress (the route, act or distance); figuratively, a mode or means

#10

ἄλλοι

G243

others

"else," i.e., different (in many applications)

#11

δὲ

G1161

And

but, and, etc

#12

στοιβάδας

G4746

branches

a spread (as if tramped flat) of loose materials for a couch, i.e., (by implication) a bough of a tree so employed

#13

ἔκοπτον

G2875

cut down

to "chop"; specially, to beat the breast in grief

#14

ἐκ

G1537

off

a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct

#15

τῶν

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#16

δένδρων,

G1186

the trees

a tree

#17

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#18

ἐστρώννυον

G4766

spread

to "strew," i.e., spread (as a carpet or couch)

#19

εἰς

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

#20

τὴν

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#21

ὁδόν·

G3598

the way

a road; by implication, a progress (the route, act or distance); figuratively, a mode or means

Analysis

Within the broader context of Mark, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Mark.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?

Related Resources

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Study Resources

Parables of Jesus