Matthew 9:20

And, behold, a woman, which was diseased with an issue of blood twelve years, came behind him, and touched the hem of his garment:

Matthew 9:20 (KJV)

Context

Matthew presents Jesus as the promised Messiah who fulfills Old Testament prophecy. The surrounding verses record a series of healing miracles, including the healing of a paralytic, the calling of Matthew the tax collector, and the raising of a ruler’s daughter from death. In this setting, a woman who had suffered from an issue of blood for twelve years comes behind Jesus and touches the hem of His garment.

Meaning

Under Jewish law, her condition rendered her ceremonially unclean, isolating her from religious and social life (Leviticus 15:25-27). Yet she approached Jesus from behind, likely to avoid public attention, and touched the hem of His garment, believing that even a touch would bring healing. The Greek word for hem, kraspedou, refers to the fringe or tassel on the edge of a Jewish man’s outer garment. This tassel, connected to Numbers 15:38-39 and Deuteronomy 22:12, reminded Israelites of God’s commandments. By reaching for the hem, the woman expressed faith that Jesus possessed the authority and power to heal, not merely that the fabric itself held power.

Biblical connections

Jesus’ response is recorded in verse 22: “But Jesus turned him about, and when he saw her, he said, Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole. And the woman was made whole from that hour.” He acknowledges her faith and affirms that it is the faith that effected her healing. The passage highlights the importance of approaching Jesus with genuine faith. The woman’s confidence was placed in Christ Himself, not in any ritual act. Jesus’ compassionate address, “daughter,” underscores the personal nature of His ministry.

Application

Matthew 9:20 demonstrates Jesus’ willingness to heal and restore anyone who comes to Him in faith, regardless of social status or physical condition. Believers are encouraged to trust in His power to make whole, knowing that He responds to sincere faith with compassion and restoration.