Matthew 14:36
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Matthew 14:36
36 And besought him that they might only touch the hem of his garment: and as many as touched were made perfectly whole.
Chapter Context
Matthew 14 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of obedience, love, worship. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-36: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 14:36
36 And besought him that they might only touch the hem of his garment: and as many as touched were made perfectly whole.
Analysis
And besought him that they might only touch the hem of his garment (καὶ παρεκάλουν αὐτὸν ἵνα μόνον ἅψωνται τοῦ κρασπέδου τοῦ ἱματίου αὐτοῦ)—The verb παρακαλέω (parakaleō, 'to beseech, to beg') shows humble petition. The request to touch μόνον ('only') the κράσπεδον (kraspedon, 'fringe, tassel') recalls the woman with the hemorrhage (9:20-22) who was healed by touching Jesus's garment. The κράσπεδον refers to the τσιτσית (tzitzit), the tassels commanded in Numbers 15:38-39 and Deuteronomy 22:12, worn by pious Jews as reminders of God's commandments.
And as many as touched were made perfectly whole (καὶ ὅσοι ἥψαντο διεσώθησαν)—The verb διασώζω (diasōzō, 'to save thoroughly, to bring safely through, to cure') in aorist passive indicates complete healing. The phrase ὅσοι ἥψαντο ('as many as touched') emphasizes the universality—everyone who touched in faith was healed. No power was lost from Jesus despite multiple recipients. His healing wasn't like a finite battery draining but like an inexhaustible fountain—the more who drew from Him, the more remained available. This validates both Christ's deity and the efficacy of faith-filled contact with Him.
Historical Context
The wearing of tassels (tzitzit) on garment corners was a visible mark of Jewish covenant faithfulness. The blue cord in the tassel reminded wearers of heaven and God's commandments (Numbers 15:39). Jesus wore these as an observant Jew, but what for others was merely ritual became for Him a point of contact through which divine power flowed. The mass healings demonstrated messianic credentials—Isaiah 53:4-5 promised the Messiah would bear our sicknesses.
Reflection
- What does seeking to touch even Jesus's garment reveal about humble faith versus presumptuous demands?
- How does Christ's inexhaustible power encourage you when you feel there's not enough grace for your overwhelming needs?