Mark 6:46
And when he had sent them away, he departed into a mountain to pray.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 8
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἀποταξάμενος
away
G657
ἀποταξάμενος
away
Strong's:
G657
Word #:
2 of 8
literally, to say adieu (by departing or dismissing); figuratively, to renounce
αὐτοῖς
them
G846
αὐτοῖς
them
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
3 of 8
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
ἀπῆλθεν
he departed
G565
ἀπῆλθεν
he departed
Strong's:
G565
Word #:
4 of 8
to go off (i.e., depart), aside (i.e., apart) or behind (i.e., follow), literally or figuratively
εἰς
into
G1519
εἰς
into
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
5 of 8
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 8
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Mark 1:35And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.Matthew 6:6But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.Luke 6:12And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.Matthew 14:23And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone.1 Peter 2:21For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:
Historical Context
Mountains held spiritual significance (Moses at Sinai, Elijah at Horeb, Transfiguration). Jewish practice included regular prayer times. Jesus' prayer after the feeding likely included thanksgiving and seeking guidance. The contrast between crowd's political enthusiasm and Jesus' prayerful solitude illustrates different kingdom priorities. Early church fathers emphasized sustained ministry requires sustained prayer.
Questions for Reflection
- What does this verse teach about Christ's nature and work?
- How should this truth shape our daily discipleship?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
And when he had sent them away, he departed into a mountain to pray. After spectacular miracle and acclaim, Jesus withdrew to pray. This pattern (Mark 1:35; Luke 5:16) models proper response to ministry fruit—not self-congratulation but communion with God. Prayer sustained Jesus' ministry, maintained alignment with Father's will, and renewed strength. If sinless Christ required prayer, how much more do human ministers need constant communion with God?