Mark 7:32

And they bring unto him one that was deaf, and had an impediment in his speech; and they beseech him to put his hand upon him.

Mark 7:32 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to the larger account in Mark 7:31-37, where Jesus heals a man who was deaf and had difficulty speaking. The people who bring him to Jesus act out of faith, believing that Jesus can heal him. Their request that Jesus place His hand on the man reflects a common Jewish practice in which blessing and healing were imparted through the laying on of hands.

Meaning

The Greek word for “deaf” (kophos) can describe someone entirely deaf and mute, or someone who has lost hearing but kept some speech. The phrase “impediment in his speech” (mogilalon) suggests the man was not completely mute but spoke with difficulty or indistinctly. His deafness may not have been from birth, since his speech was not entirely ruined. The people’s plea for Jesus to touch him shows their confidence in His power and compassion.

Biblical connections

This healing is a sign of the Messiah’s work, fulfilling prophetic expectations that the deaf would hear and the mute would speak. The people’s response, declaring that Jesus “makes the deaf hear and the mute speak,” echoes these promises and points to His divine authority.

Application

This account encourages believers to bring others to Jesus in intercessory faith, just as the people brought the deaf man. It also reassures us that Jesus responds to the needs of individuals with compassion and authority. His healing touch restores not only the body but also the spirit, enabling us to hear God’s voice and speak His praise clearly.

Reflection

Mark 7:32 captures a moment of humble faith and divine mercy. It reminds us that Jesus is both willing and able to transform lives, bringing wholeness to those who seek Him. The same Saviour who opened the ears and loosened the tongue of this man still works today, restoring what is broken and giving voice to those who were silent.