Mark 5:32

And he looked round about to see her that had done this thing.

Mark 5:32 (KJV)

Context

This verse sits within the larger narrative of Mark 5:21-43, which recounts two remarkable healings: the woman with the issue of blood and the raising of Jairus’ daughter. Mark 5:32 occurs immediately after the woman is healed and just before Jesus proceeds to Jairus’ house. Jesus had felt that virtue had gone out of him, turned in the crowd, and asked, “Who touched my clothes?” The disciples pointed to the pressing crowd, but Jesus knew a specific, faith-filled touch had occurred.

His looking around was not for information, for he already knew who had been healed. Rather, he sought to draw the woman out. The woman, who had suffered for twelve years, came in fear and trembling, fell down before him, and told him all the truth (Mark 5:33). Jesus’ deliberate search highlights his personal care and his desire for a public confession of faith—not to shame her, but to affirm her and pronounce her whole and in peace (Mark 5:34).

Meaning

The verse underscores that Jesus knows each individual’s act of faith and seeks to bring it into the light for blessing. The thronging crowd contrasts with the one intentional touch of faith. Jesus’ question and his looking around demonstrate that genuine faith, even amidst a crowd, receives his personal attention. He honors the woman’s belief by calling her “daughter,” indicating a restored relationship.

Biblical connections

This passage connects to the broader Gospel theme that faith is instrumental in receiving divine restoration. Jesus’ declaration, “Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be healed of thy plagues,” emphasizes that belief leads to wholeness. The narrative also foreshadows the raising of Jairus’ daughter, showing that Jesus responds to faith in both healing and resurrection power.

Application

Believers are encouraged to cultivate trust in God’s promises, recognizing that faith can lead to spiritual wholeness. Jesus honors and responds to genuine belief, even when it is expressed quietly or amid a crowd. This verse invites readers to reflect on the power of personal faith and to approach Jesus with the same confidence that the woman displayed.

Reflection

Jesus’ deliberate search for the woman reminds us that he sees and values each individual’s act of faith. He does not overlook the humble, desperate touch of a sufferer. In a world of pressing crowds, Jesus still stops to give his full attention to those who reach out to him in faith, offering not only healing but also peace and a restored relationship.