Mark 6:49
But when they saw him walking upon the sea, they supposed it had been a spirit, and cried out:
Original Language Analysis
οἱ
G3588
οἱ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
1 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἰδόντες
when they saw
G1492
ἰδόντες
when they saw
Strong's:
G1492
Word #:
3 of 13
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
αὐτὸν
him
G846
αὐτὸν
him
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
4 of 13
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
περιπατοῦντα
walking
G4043
περιπατοῦντα
walking
Strong's:
G4043
Word #:
5 of 13
to tread all around, i.e., walk at large (especially as proof of ability); figuratively, to live, deport oneself, follow (as a companion or votary)
ἐπὶ
upon
G1909
ἐπὶ
upon
Strong's:
G1909
Word #:
6 of 13
properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re
τῆς
G3588
τῆς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἔδοξαν
they supposed
G1380
ἔδοξαν
they supposed
Strong's:
G1380
Word #:
9 of 13
compare the base of g1166) of the same meaning; to think; by implication, to seem (truthfully or uncertainly)
φάντασμά
a spirit
G5326
φάντασμά
a spirit
Strong's:
G5326
Word #:
10 of 13
(properly concrete) a (mere) show ("phantasm"), i.e., spectre
Historical Context
Ancient Mediterranean culture believed in ghosts and sea spirits. Jewish tradition included stories of supernatural beings, though orthodox theology rejected pagan superstitions. Their terror reflected natural human response to apparently supernatural phenomenon. The cry suggests collective panic—all disciples feared simultaneously, showing it wasn't individual hallucination but observable event.
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
But when they saw him walking upon the sea, they supposed it had been a spirit, and cried out: Seeing Jesus walking on water, they 'supposed it had been a spirit' (φάντασμα, phantasma, ghost/apparition) and 'cried out' in terror. Their fear despite witnessing countless miracles reveals persistent spiritual dullness. They didn't immediately recognize Jesus in unexpected manifestation, illustrating how preconceptions limit recognizing Christ's presence.