Mark 5:23
And besought him greatly, saying, My little daughter lieth at the point of death: I pray thee, come and lay thy hands on her, that she may be healed; and she shall live.
Mark 5:23 (KJV)
Context
Jairus, a ruler of the synagogue, fell at Jesus’ feet and urgently pleaded for his dying daughter. The Greek word translated “besought” (parakaleō) carries the sense of earnest imploring, and the accompanying adverb “greatly” (polla) intensifies the urgency. His daughter was “at the point of death,” meaning she was in the last extremity, near death but not yet gone.
Meaning
Jairus’ plea reveals both his desperation and his faith. Despite being a prominent religious leader, he humbled himself before Jesus, acknowledging that only divine intervention could save his daughter. His specific request, “come and lay thy hands on her, that she may be healed,” reflects a common biblical practice: the laying on of hands often signified a transfer of power, blessing, or healing (Mark 6:5; Luke 4:40; Acts 6:6). Jairus believed that Jesus’ touch could bring about a miraculous healing. The Greek word for “healed” (sōthē) can also mean “saved” or “made well,” and “she shall live” (zēsē) points to physical life restored.
Jairus also expressed confidence in Jesus’ authority by saying, “and she shall live.” He spoke of his daughter’s restoration before it happened, demonstrating unwavering trust in Jesus’ power. This teaches that when Jesus speaks, His words carry divine authority and are certain to be fulfilled.
Biblical connections
The narrative is interrupted by the healing of the woman with the issue of blood (Mark 5:25-34), which delayed Jesus’ journey to Jairus’ house. This delay tested Jairus’ faith and patience, as the situation grew more dire. Yet Jesus used the interruption to demonstrate His limitless power. When messengers arrived with the news that the daughter had died, Jesus reassured Jairus, “Be not afraid, only believe” (Mark 5:36, KJV). At the house, Jesus took the girl’s hand and commanded her to rise, and she was immediately restored to life (Mark 5:41-42). This event shows Jesus’ authority even over death, foreshadowing His own resurrection and affirming His power to bring eternal life to all who believe.
Application
Mark 5:23 encourages believers to bring urgent needs to Jesus with earnest prayer and faith. Jairus’ example shows that no one is too important to come humbly to Christ, and no need is too desperate for His touch. When God’s timing seems delayed, we are called to trust Him and exercise patience, knowing that His plans are perfect. The certainty of Jesus’ words gives us confidence to believe in His promises, even when circumstances appear hopeless.
Reflection
Consider how you approach Jesus in times of crisis. Do you come with the same earnestness and humility as Jairus? Reflect on areas where you need to trust in Jesus’ power to heal, restore, and bring life, even when the situation seems beyond hope.
