Mark Chapter 5 · Verse 8
For he said unto him, Come out of the man, thou unclean spirit.
Original Language Analysis
ἔλεγεν
he said
G3004
ἔλεγεν
he said
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
1 of 11
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 11
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
αὐτῷ
unto him
G846
αὐτῷ
unto him
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
3 of 11
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
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
πνεῦμα
spirit
G4151
πνεῦμα
spirit
Strong's:
G4151
Word #:
6 of 11
a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἀκάθαρτον
thou unclean
G169
ἀκάθαρτον
thou unclean
Strong's:
G169
Word #:
8 of 11
impure (ceremonially, morally (lewd) or specially, (demonic))
ἐκ
out of
G1537
ἐκ
out of
Strong's:
G1537
Word #:
9 of 11
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
Historical Context
Ancient exorcism practices involved complex rituals: incantations, magical names, herbs, amulets. Jewish exorcists used Solomon's name or elaborate formulas (Acts 19:13-16). Pagan exorcisms invoked various deities. Jesus' simple, direct command demonstrated unique authority. He spoke as one possessing inherent right to command demons—because He created angels before their fall. Early church exorcised in Jesus' name (Mark 16:17; Acts 16:18), demonstrating delegated authority from Christ. Church history records exorcisms continuing but always based on Christ's authority, not human power or technique.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Jesus' simple, authoritative command demonstrate His deity and inherent power?
- What does this teach about spiritual warfare—Christ's authority, not human technique, defeats demons?
- How can believers exercise Christ's delegated authority over demonic forces today?
Analysis & Commentary
Mark explains the demon's plea: 'For he said unto him, Come out of the man, thou unclean spirit.' Jesus was already commanding exorcism when demon pleaded. The command 'Come out' (Ἔξελθε) is direct, authoritative. 'Unclean spirit' (πνεῦμα τὸ ἀκάθαρτον) emphasizes moral corruption and ritual defilement. Jesus required no elaborate ritual, lengthy ceremony, or magical formula—simple word sufficed. This demonstrates inherent authority. The demons' pleading shows they must obey but resist, seeking delay or negotiation. Jesus' word compels obedience; demons cannot resist Creator's command.