Mark 6:36

Authorized King James Version

Send them away, that they may go into the country round about, and into the villages, and buy themselves bread: for they have nothing to eat.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ἀπόλυσον

G630

Send

to free fully, i.e., (literally) relieve, release, dismiss (reflexively, depart), or (figuratively) let die, pardon or (specially) divorce

αὐτούς

G846

them

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

ἵνα

G2443

that

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

ἀπελθόντες

G565

they may go

to go off (i.e., depart), aside (i.e., apart) or behind (i.e., follow), literally or figuratively

εἰς

G1519

into

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

τοὺς

G3588

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

κύκλῳ

G2945

round about

i.e., in a circle (by implication, of g1722), i.e., (adverbially) all around

ἀγροὺς

G68

the country

a field (as a drive for cattle); genitive case, the country; specially, a farm, i.e., hamlet

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#10

κώμας

G2968

into the villages

a hamlet (as if laid down)

#11

ἀγοράσωσιν

G59

and buy

properly, to go to market, i.e., (by implication) to purchase; specially, to redeem

#12

ἑαυτοῖς

G1438

themselves

(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc

#13

ἄρτους

G740

bread

bread (as raised) or a loaf

#14

τί

G5101

nothing

an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)

#15

γὰρ

G1063

for

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

#16

φάγωσιν

G5315

to eat

to eat (literally or figuratively)

#17

οὐκ

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

#18

ἔχουσιν

G2192

they have

to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio

Analysis

Within the broader context of Mark, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. 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

How does this verse's literary context within Mark chapter 6 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?

Related Resources

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Study Resources

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