Mark 7:35

And straightway his ears were opened, and the string of his tongue was loosed, and he spake plain.

Mark 7:35 (KJV)

Context

Jesus had just healed a deaf man with a speech impediment in the region of Decapolis. After taking the man aside, He put His fingers in his ears, touched his tongue, and said, “Be opened.” Mark 7:35 records the immediate result of that command.

Meaning

The word “straightway” emphasizes that the healing was instantaneous and complete. The man’s ears were opened, meaning his hearing was fully restored. The “string” or “bond” of his tongue was loosed, indicating that an impediment had bound his speech. This bond was released, and he spoke “plain,” meaning clearly and without difficulty, so that others could understand him easily. The healing was not partial; both hearing and speech were restored at once.

Biblical connections

The crowd’s response in Mark 7:37, “He hath done all things well: he maketh both the deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak,” directly confirms the completeness of this miracle. Throughout the Gospels, physical healings often picture spiritual truths. This man’s deafness and inability to speak plainly can symbolize spiritual deafness and silence before encountering Christ. By healing him, Jesus demonstrated His power to open our ears to God’s truth and to loose our tongues to proclaim the Gospel.

Application

This verse assures us that when Christ acts, He does so fully and without delay. Just as He restored the man’s hearing and speech, He can release us from spiritual limitations that keep us from hearing God’s Word and speaking it boldly. His compassion moves Him to heal, and His power accomplishes the work completely.

Reflection

Jesus is not only concerned with physical ailments but also desires to bring healing and restoration to our souls. This miracle invites us to trust His complete power and to respond with grateful hearts, ready to hear and speak His truth.