Mark 5:14

And they that fed the swine fled, and told it in the city, and in the country. And they went out to see what it was that was done.

Mark 5:14 (KJV)

Context

Mark 5:14 is part of a larger passage that describes Jesus’ encounter with a man possessed by demons in the region of the Gadarenes (or Gerasenes). This man had been living among the tombs and was uncontrollable, but Jesus cast out the demons and restored him to his right mind. The verse records the immediate aftermath: the herdsmen who fed the swine fled and reported what had happened in the city and in the country, and the people went out to see for themselves.

Meaning

The witnesses were not the owners of the swine but the keepers or herdsmen. They fled, astonished at Christ’s power, terrified at the sight and loss of the herd. Their report spread throughout the region, making the miracle public. The Greek text emphasizes that the people came to see “what it was that was done,” highlighting their curiosity and the public nature of the event. This sets the stage for the following verses, where the people find the formerly demon-possessed man clothed and in his right mind, and they are afraid (Mark 5:15).

Biblical connections

The presence of swine in this passage holds symbolic significance. In Jewish culture, swine were considered unclean animals according to the Mosaic law (Leviticus 11:7). The presence of the swine represents impurity and is a contrast to the holiness and power of Jesus. The event takes place in a Gentile area, which explains the presence of a herd of swine and underscores the reach of Jesus’ authority beyond Jewish boundaries.

Application

When the people who were tending the swine witnessed the miracle of the demon-possessed man’s transformation, they were afraid and fled. Instead of recognising Jesus’ authority and power, they focused on their material loss—the destruction of their herd of pigs. Their response indicates a rejection of Jesus and a lack of understanding or appreciation for the spiritual healing that took place. This serves as a cautionary reminder not to prioritise material gain over spiritual well-being. The greatest miracle in this passage is the healing of the demon-possessed man, illustrating that spiritual healing and restoration are of utmost importance.

The people who saw what happened with the man and the swine spread the news throughout the city and the countryside. They were curious and went out to see for themselves what had taken place. This spreading of the news serves as a testimony to the power of Jesus and his ability to bring about profound changes in people’s lives. It reminds us to acknowledge and accept Jesus’ authority over all things, including the spiritual realm, and not to allow material possessions or worldly concerns to overshadow the importance of a transformed life in Christ. The reaction of the witnesses also teaches us the significance of sharing the testimonies of what God has done in our lives. By sharing the stories of God’s power and grace, we can encourage others to seek Jesus and experience transformation themselves.