Mark 9:15
And straightway all the people, when they beheld him, were greatly amazed, and running to him saluted him.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
The Greek verb exethambēthēsan appears only in Mark's Gospel, describing intense astonishment at Jesus' person and works (Mark 9:15; 14:33; 16:5-6). The crowd's reaction suggests they recognized something extraordinary about Jesus' arrival. Ancient Near Eastern customs of greeting honored persons included running to meet them (Luke 15:20) and respectful salutation. The crowd's eager greeting contrasts with the scribes' hostile questioning, illustrating divided responses to Jesus—some receive Him gladly, others oppose. This pattern continues throughout Mark and reflects human response to divine revelation.
Questions for Reflection
- What does the crowd's amazement at Jesus' arrival teach about recognizing divine providence in timely provision?
- How does the contrast between the crowd's eager greeting and the scribes' hostile questioning reflect the divided human response to Christ?
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Analysis & Commentary
When the multitude saw Jesus, 'they were greatly amazed, and running to him saluted him' (εὐθὺς πᾶς ὁ ὄχλος ἰδὼν αὐτὸν ἐξεθαμβήθησαν). The verb exethambēthēsan (ἐξεθαμβήθησαν) indicates astonishment or awe. Some commentators speculate that Jesus' face still reflected transfiguration glory (like Moses, Exodus 34:29-35), though Mark doesn't state this explicitly. More likely, the crowd's amazement stemmed from Jesus' timely arrival to resolve the disciples' crisis—divine providence manifest. Their running to Him and greeting Him (ēspazonto, ἠσπάζοντο) shows eager reception and respect. This contrasts with the scribes' antagonism. Jesus' presence transforms the situation—from contentious debate about the disciples' failure to demonstration of God's power over demons (vv. 25-27).