Mark 2:11
I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine house.
Original Language Analysis
λέγω
I say
G3004
λέγω
I say
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
2 of 14
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
ἔγειραι
Arise
G1453
ἔγειραι
Arise
Strong's:
G1453
Word #:
3 of 14
to waken (transitively or intransitively), i.e., rouse (literally, from sleep, from sitting or lying, from disease, from death; or figuratively, from
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
4 of 14
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἆρον
take up
G142
ἆρον
take up
Strong's:
G142
Word #:
5 of 14
to lift up; by implication, to take up or away; figuratively, to raise (the voice), keep in suspense (the mind), specially, to sail away (i.e., weigh
τὸν
G3588
τὸν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
9 of 14
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ὕπαγε
go thy way
G5217
ὕπαγε
go thy way
Strong's:
G5217
Word #:
10 of 14
to lead (oneself) under, i.e., withdraw or retire (as if sinking out of sight), literally or figuratively
εἰς
into
G1519
εἰς
into
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
11 of 14
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
τὸν
G3588
τὸν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
12 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Historical Context
The κράβαττος (krabattos, 'bed' or 'pallet') was a simple sleeping mat used by the poor, easily carried when rolled up. Jesus performed this miracle publicly in a crowded house, providing undeniable evidence before hostile witnesses. The command to return home demonstrated thorough healing—the man could navigate streets, stairs, and distance. The immediacy of healing contrasts with gradual ancient medical treatments. This miracle, like many in Mark, emphasizes Jesus' power over all human afflictions.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Christ's authoritative word that creates new realities demonstrate His deity and power to transform your life?
- In what areas of spiritual paralysis do you need to hear Christ's command to 'arise' and walk in newness of life?
- What does this miracle teach about the relationship between Christ's word and His power to accomplish what He commands?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Jesus addresses the paralytic directly with three imperatives: 'I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine house.' The emphatic 'I say unto thee' (σοὶ λέγω, soi legō) asserts Christ's personal authority—not 'God says' or 'in God's name,' but 'I say.' This first-person authority claim distinguishes Jesus from prophets who spoke for God; Jesus speaks as God. The command to 'arise' (ἔγειρε, egeire) uses terminology associated with resurrection (the same verb appears in Mark 5:41; 16:6), symbolically connecting physical healing with spiritual resurrection from sin's death. The command to 'take up thy bed' reverses his condition—the bed that carried him now becomes his burden to carry. Reformed theology sees this miracle as illustrative of effectual calling—Christ's powerful word creates what it commands.