Mark 5:11

Authorized King James Version

Now there was there nigh unto the mountains a great herd of swine feeding.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Ἦν
there was
i (thou, etc.) was (wast or were)
#2
δὲ
Now
but, and, etc
#3
ἐκεῖ
there
there; by extension, thither
#4
πρὸς
nigh
a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,
#5
τὰ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
ὄρη
unto the mountains
a mountain (as lifting itself above the plain)
#7
ἀγέλη
G34
herd
a drove
#8
χοίρων
of swine
a hog
#9
μεγάλη
a great
big (literally or figuratively, in a very wide application)
#10
βοσκομένη·
feeding
to pasture; by extension to, fodder; reflexively, to graze

Analysis

Within the broader context of Mark, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

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