Matthew 9:21
For she said within herself, If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
Levitical law regarding menstrual flow (Leviticus 15) created social isolation for women with chronic bleeding. Twelve years of hemorrhaging meant twelve years of exclusion from worship, social gatherings, and physical touch. She would be divorced or unmarriageable. Mark 5:26 notes she spent all her money on doctors without improvement. Her condition was medically hopeless and socially devastating. Touching Jesus' garment may reference Numbers 15:38-39 regarding tassels (tzitzit) on garment corners, symbolizing covenant faithfulness. If so, she reaches for the visible sign of God's covenant presence.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this woman's faith despite shame and fear encourage us to approach Jesus with our 'unclean' conditions?
- What does her secret touch becoming public testimony teach about Jesus exposing hidden faith?
- How does Jesus' healing power flowing even through His garment demonstrate grace's overflow?
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Analysis & Commentary
The woman with the issue of blood reasons: 'If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole' (εαν μονον αψωμαι του ιματιου αυτου σωθησομαι). Her logic combines desperation and faith. Chronic bleeding made her ceremonially unclean (Leviticus 15:25-27), excluded from worship and normal social contact. Anyone she touched became unclean. Her approach from behind, touching Jesus' garment secretly, reflects shame and fear of rebuke for making Him unclean. Yet her faith is profound: 'If I may but touch' expresses confidence that even indirect contact with Jesus brings healing. 'I shall be whole' (σωθησομαι, future passive of σωζω) means 'I shall be saved/healed'—the same word used for salvation, indicating physical healing reflects spiritual redemption. Her faith grasps that Jesus' power flows even through clothing, and His holiness doesn't fear contamination from uncleanness.