Movatterモバイル変換

Leviticus 11:7,8
And the swine, though he divide the hoof, and be clovenfooted, yet he cheweth not the cud; heis unclean to you…

Deuteronomy 14:8
And the swine, because it divideth the hoof, yet cheweth not the cud, itis unclean unto you: ye shall not eat of their flesh, nor touch their dead carcase.

Isaiah 65:4
Which remain among the graves, and lodge in the monuments, which eat swine's flesh, and broth of abominablethings is in their vessels;

a large herd of pigs
The presence of pigs highlights the Gentile nature of the region, as Jews would not typically raise pigs due to their dietary laws. The herd's size, described as "large," suggests a significant economic investment, indicating the importance of pig farming to the local economy. This detail underscores the cultural and religious divide between Jesus and the local population, as pigs were considered unclean and detestable in Jewish culture (Deuteronomy 14:8). The large herd also sets the stage for the dramatic events that follow, emphasizing the magnitude of the miracle Jesus is about to perform.

was feeding
The act of feeding implies a routine, everyday activity, which contrasts with the extraordinary events that follow. This detail grounds the narrative in a real-world setting, emphasizing the normalcy of life before Jesus' intervention. The feeding of the pigs also serves as a backdrop to the spiritual feeding and liberation that Jesus offers to the demon-possessed man. This phrase can be seen as a metaphor for sustenance and provision, themes that are prevalent throughout Jesus' ministry, as He provides spiritual nourishment and deliverance to those in need.

• “There” situates the scene in real space and time (Mark 5:1).

• Jesus and the disciples have just crossed the Sea of Galilee; the location is the Gentile region of the Gerasenes (Luke 8:26).

• The verse reminds us that what follows is not allegory but an historical moment, echoing other concrete settings in Scripture such as “There in Bethany” (John 12:1).

• “Nearby” signals that what happens to the pigs will be visible to everyone present, underscoring the public demonstration of Christ’s authority (Mark 5:14).

• “Hillside” conveys elevation—people, including the formerly demon-possessed man, can watch events unfold below, similar to Jesus teaching from a mountain (Matthew 5:1).

• The geography shows how swiftly the herd will rush down toward the lake (Mark 5:13).

• Mark later numbers the pigs at about two thousand (Mark 5:13); the detail stresses magnitude.

• A herd this size reflects significant local investment, heightening the economic shock when the animals perish (Mark 5:16–17).

• The scale dramatizes the vastness of demonic influence—many unclean spirits require many hosts—yet Jesus masters them instantly, echoing “He heals all their diseases” (Psalm 103:3).

• Pigs were considered unclean under the Law (Leviticus 11:7;Isaiah 65:4).

• Their presence confirms the Gentile setting, illustrating that Jesus’ ministry extends beyond Israel (Mark 7:27–29;John 10:16).

• Unclean spirits seek unclean hosts; the pigs symbolize impurity that cannot coexist with the holiness of Christ (Revelation 21:27).

• The herd is calm and occupied with everyday life—until confronted by Jesus’ power, mirroring how ordinary routines can mask spiritual bondage (Ephesians 2:1–3).

• “Was feeding” parallels peaceful pastoral scenes (Psalm 23:2), yet in this case the impending destruction contrasts sharply with the Good Shepherd’s care for His flock (John 10:11).

• The verb underscores that nature obeys its Creator; the sudden stampede that follows will illustrate creation’s response to spiritual realities (Romans 8:19–22).

Mark 5:11 sets the stage for Jesus to display absolute authority over a legion of demons. A tangible hillside, a massive Gentile herd, unclean animals peacefully grazing—every detail highlights the stark contrast between ordinary life and the supernatural power of Christ. The verse prepares us to witness how the Savior delivers a man from darkness, proves His lordship over the spiritual realm, and challenges onlookers to recognize both the cost and the freedom that come when He confronts evil.