New International VersionThen Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” “My name is Legion,” he replied, “for we are many.”
New Living TranslationThen Jesus demanded, “What is your name?” And he replied, “My name is Legion, because there are many of us inside this man.”
English Standard VersionAnd Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” He replied, “My name is Legion, for we are many.”
Berean Standard Bible“What is your name?” Jesus asked. “My name is Legion,” he replied, “for we are many.”
Berean Literal BibleAnd He was asking him, "What is your name?" And he answered saying, "My name is Legion, because we are many."
King James BibleAnd he asked him, What is thy name? And he answered, saying, My name is Legion: for we are many.
New King James VersionThen He asked him, “What is your name?” And he answered, saying, “My name is Legion; for we are many.”
New American Standard BibleAnd He was asking him, “What is your name?” And he said to Him, “My name is Legion, for we are many.”
NASB 1995And He was asking him, “What is your name?” And he said to Him, “My name is Legion; for we are many.”
NASB 1977And He was asking him, “What is your name?” And he said to Him, “My name is Legion; for we are many.”
Legacy Standard BibleAnd He was asking him, “What is your name?” And he said to Him, “My name is Legion; for we are many.”
Amplified BibleHe was asking him, “What is your name?” And he replied, “My name is Legion; for we are many.”
Christian Standard Bible“What is your name? ” he asked him. “My name is Legion,” he answered him, “because we are many.”
Holman Christian Standard Bible“What is your name?” He asked him.” My name is Legion,” he answered Him, “because we are many.”
American Standard VersionAnd he asked him, What is thy name? And he saith unto him, My name is Legion; for we are many.
Contemporary English VersionJesus asked, "What is your name?" The man answered, "My name is Lots, because I have 'lots' of evil spirits."
English Revised VersionAnd he asked him, What is thy name? And he saith unto him, My name is Legion; for we are many.
GOD'S WORD® TranslationJesus asked him, "What is your name?" He told Jesus, "My name is Legion [Six Thousand], because there are many of us."
Good News TranslationSo Jesus asked him, "What is your name?" The man answered, "My name is 'Mob'--there are so many of us!"
International Standard VersionThen Jesus asked him, "What's your name?" He told him, "My name is Legion, because there are many of us."
NET BibleJesus asked him, "What is your name?" And he said, "My name is Legion, for we are many."
New Heart English BibleAnd then he asked him, "What is your name?" And he replied, "My name is Legion, for we are many."
Webster's Bible TranslationAnd he asked him, What is thy name? And he answered, saying, My name is Legion: for we are many.
Weymouth New TestamentJesus also questioned him. "What is your name?" He said. "Legion," he replied, "for there are a host of us." Majority Text Translations Majority Standard Bible“What is your name?” Jesus asked. “My name is Legion,” he replied, “for we are many.”
World English BibleHe asked him, “What is your name?” He said to him, “My name is Legion, for we are many.” Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionAnd He was questioning him, “What [is] your name?” And he answered, saying, “Legion [is] my name, because we are many”;
Berean Literal BibleAnd He was asking him, "What is your name?" And he answered saying, "My name is Legion, because we are many."
Young's Literal Translation and he was questioning him, 'What is thy name?' and he answered, saying, 'Legion is my name, because we are many;'
Smith's Literal TranslationAnd he asked him, What the name to thee? And he answered, saying, My name, Legion: for we are many. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleAnd he asked him: What is thy name? And he saith to him: My name is Legion, for we are many.
Catholic Public Domain VersionAnd he questioned him: “What is your name?” And he said to him, “My name is Legion, for we are many.”
New American BibleHe asked him, “What is your name?” He replied, “Legion is my name. There are many of us.”
New Revised Standard VersionThen Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” He replied, “My name is Legion; for we are many.” Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleAnd he asked him, What is your name? And he said to him, Our name is Legion, because we are many.
Aramaic Bible in Plain EnglishAnd he had asked him, “What is your name?” He said to him, “Our name is Legion, for we are many.” NT Translations Anderson New TestamentAnd he asked him: What is your name? And he said to him: My name is Legion; for we are many.
Godbey New TestamentAnd He asked him, What is thy name? And he says to Him, My name is Legion; because we are many.
Haweis New Testament
And he interrogated him, What is thy name? and he replied, saying, Legion is my name; for we are many.
Mace New Testament
and Jesus asked him, what is thy name? my name is legion, answered he: for we are many.
Weymouth New Testament
Jesus also questioned him. "What is your name?" He said. "Legion," he replied, "for there are a host of us."
Worrell New Testament
And He asked him,"What is your name?" And he says to Him, "My name is Legion, because we are many."
Worsley New Testament
And He asked him,What is thy name? And he answered, saying, My name is Legion: for we are many.
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context The Demons and the Pigs… 8For Jesus had already declared, “Come out of this man, you unclean spirit!” 9“What isyourname?”Jesus asked.“Myname isLegion,”he replied,“forwe aremany.”10And he begged Jesus repeatedly not to send them out of that region.…
Cross References Matthew 8:28-34When Jesus arrived on the other side in the region of the Gadarenes, He was met by two demon-possessed men coming from the tombs. They were so violent that no one could pass that way. / “What do You want with us, Son of God?” they shouted. “Have You come here to torture us before the appointed time?” / In the distance a large herd of pigs was feeding. ...
Luke 8:30“What is your name?” Jesus asked. “Legion,” he replied, because many demons had gone into him.
Matthew 12:43-45When an unclean spirit comes out of a man, it passes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. / Then it says, ‘I will return to the house I left.’ On its return, it finds the house vacant, swept clean, and put in order. / Then it goes and brings with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and dwell there. And the final plight of that man is worse than the first. So will it be with this wicked generation.”
Luke 11:24-26When an unclean spirit comes out of a man, it passes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. Then it says, ‘I will return to the house I left.’ / On its return, it finds the house swept clean and put in order. / Then it goes and brings seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and dwell there. And the final plight of that man is worse than the first.”
James 2:19You believe that God is one. Good for you! Even the demons believe that—and shudder.
Revelation 12:9And the great dragon was hurled down—that ancient serpent called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him.
Revelation 16:13-14And I saw three unclean spirits that looked like frogs coming out of the mouths of the dragon, the beast, and the false prophet. / These are demonic spirits that perform signs and go out to all the kings of the earth, to assemble them for battle on the great day of God the Almighty.
Acts 19:15But one day the evil spirit responded, “Jesus I know, and I know about Paul, but who are you?”
Ephesians 6:12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world’s darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
1 Peter 5:8Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.
Genesis 6:2-4the sons of God saw that the daughters of men were beautiful, and they took as wives whomever they chose. / So the LORD said, “My Spirit will not contend with man forever, for he is mortal; his days shall be 120 years.” / The Nephilim were on the earth in those days—and afterward as well—when the sons of God had relations with the daughters of men. And they bore them children who became the mighty men of old, men of renown.
Job 1:6-7One day the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came with them. / “Where have you come from?” said the LORD to Satan. “From roaming through the earth,” he replied, “and walking back and forth in it.”
Job 2:1-2On another day the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came with them to present himself before Him. / “Where have you come from?” said the LORD to Satan. “From roaming through the earth,” he replied, “and walking back and forth in it.”
1 Kings 22:21-23Then a spirit came forward, stood before the LORD, and said, ‘I will entice him.’ ‘By what means?’ asked the LORD. / And he replied, ‘I will go out and be a lying spirit in the mouths of all his prophets.’ ‘You will surely entice him and prevail,’ said the LORD. ‘Go and do it.’ / So you see, the LORD has put a lying spirit in the mouths of all these prophets of yours, and the LORD has pronounced disaster against you.”
2 Kings 6:17Then Elisha prayed, “O LORD, please open his eyes that he may see.” And the LORD opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw that the hills were full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.
Treasury of Scripture And he asked him, What is your name? And he answered, saying, My name is Legion: for we are many. What. Luke 8:30 And Jesus asked him, saying, What is thy name? And he said, Legion: because many devils were entered into him. Luke 11:21-26 When a strong man armed keepeth his palace, his goods are in peace: … Legion. Matthew 12:45 Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the laststate of that man is worse than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this wicked generation. Matthew 26:53 Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels? Jump to Previous GreatHostJesusLegionQuestionedQuestioningJump to Next GreatHostJesusLegionQuestionedQuestioningMark 5 1.Jesus delivering the possessed of the legion of demons,13.they enter into the pigs.22.He is entreated by Jairus to go and heal his daughter.25.He heals the woman subject to bleeding,35.and raises Jairus' daughter from death.“What is your name?” Jesus asked.In this passage, Jesus is addressing a man possessed by an unclean spirit. The question "What is your name?" is significant as it demonstrates Jesus' authority over the spiritual realm. In ancient Jewish culture, knowing the name of a spirit was believed to give one power over it. This encounter takes place in the region of the Gerasenes, a predominantly Gentile area, highlighting Jesus' ministry extending beyond Jewish boundaries. The question also serves to reveal the nature and extent of the possession, setting the stage for the miraculous deliverance that follows. “My name is Legion,” he replied,
The response "My name is Legion" indicates the severity of the man's condition. A Roman legion typically consisted of about 6,000 soldiers, suggesting the man was possessed by a multitude of demons. This reflects the overwhelming spiritual oppression he was under. The use of the term "Legion" also evokes the Roman military presence in the region, symbolizing the oppressive forces at work both physically and spiritually. This encounter underscores the power of Jesus over even the most formidable spiritual adversaries. “for we are many.”
The phrase "for we are many" confirms the multitude of demons inhabiting the man, emphasizing the depth of his torment. This multitude of demons represents the chaotic and destructive nature of evil, contrasting with the order and peace that Jesus brings. The acknowledgment of their number also highlights the comprehensive victory Jesus achieves in delivering the man. This event foreshadows the ultimate defeat of evil through Christ's death and resurrection, as prophesied inGenesis 3:15, where the seed of the woman will crush the serpent's head. Persons / Places / Events 1. JesusThe central figure in the Gospel of Mark, Jesus is the Son of God who performs miracles and teaches with authority. In this passage, He is confronting a man possessed by demons. 2. The Demon-Possessed ManA man living among the tombs, possessed by a multitude of demons. His condition is dire, and he is unable to be restrained by any human means. 3. LegionThe name given by the demons when Jesus asks for it. A Roman legion consisted of thousands of soldiers, indicating the multitude of demons possessing the man. 4. The Region of the GerasenesThe location where this event takes place, a predominantly Gentile area on the eastern side of the Sea of Galilee. 5. The DisciplesAlthough not directly mentioned in this verse, they are present with Jesus and witness this miraculous encounter. Teaching Points Authority of Jesus Over EvilJesus demonstrates His divine authority over the spiritual realm, showing that no power is greater than His. The Reality of Spiritual WarfareThis passage reminds believers of the reality of spiritual forces and the importance of being spiritually vigilant. The Power of NamingIn biblical times, knowing a name often implied authority over the named. Jesus' question and the demons' response highlight His control over them. Deliverance and RestorationJesus' interaction with the demon-possessed man shows His desire to deliver and restore individuals to wholeness. Compassion for the MarginalizedJesus' willingness to engage with a man living among the tombs reflects His compassion for those marginalized by society. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1.What is the meaning of Mark 5:9?
2.How does Mark 5:9 illustrate the power of Jesus over evil spirits?
3.What can we learn from Jesus' interaction with "Legion" about spiritual warfare?
4.How does Mark 5:9 connect to Ephesians 6:12 on spiritual battles?
5.How can we apply Jesus' authority in Mark 5:9 to our daily struggles?
6.What steps can we take to rely on Jesus' power over evil influences?
7.What does "My name is Legion, for we are many" reveal about demonic possession in Mark 5:9?
8.How does Mark 5:9 challenge our understanding of identity and self in spiritual warfare?
9.Why does Jesus ask the demon's name in Mark 5:9, and what is its significance?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Mark 5?
11.What did "My name is Legion" signify for the demons?
12.What did 'My name is Legion' signify for the demons?
13.How was the woman with the issue of blood healed?
14.Mark 5:1–13: How can demons scientifically or historically be transferred from a possessed man into a herd of pigs?What Does Mark 5:9 Mean What is your name?Jesus begins with a question that seems simple but carries deep weight. In Scripture, names reveal identity and destiny (Genesis 32:27;Exodus 3:13-14). By asking, the Lord: • Draws the darkness into the light—demons must expose themselves when the Savior speaks (Ephesians 5:13). • Signals personal confrontation; nothing about this deliverance is mechanical. It is relational, precise, and intentional (Acts 9:4-5). • Affirms that every bondage has a specific root, and He knows how to address it.
Jesus asked.The authority rests entirely with Jesus. Mark repeatedly shows that unclean spirits fall silent or submit when He speaks (Mark 1:27; 3:11). Here: • The question is not for His information but for the sake of the tormented man and the witnesses. • The very act of asking demonstrates that Christ controls the conversation, not the demons (Job 38:11;Luke 8:29). • It illustrates the Lord’s pastoral heart—He dignifies the man even while addressing the spirits.
My name is Legion,The reply reveals the scale of oppression. A Roman legion numbered thousands, and the spirit chooses that term to communicate overwhelming force (Matthew 26:53). Key insights: • Darkness loves to intimidate by magnifying its size, yet merely confessing it to Jesus places it under His feet (Colossians 2:15). • The admission uncovers a counterfeit unity—many spirits acting as one, in contrast to the true unity of the Spirit in God’s people (John 17:21). • Even in defiance, the demon must answer. Hell’s armies cannot withhold information when the Master inquires (Luke 4:35).
he replied,Though the voice is singular, the speaker represents the multitude within. Notice: • Demons have no option to remain silent; they must “reply” because the Creator’s word compels response (Mark 1:24;James 2:19). • Their admission is a reluctant confession of Christ’s supremacy, underscoring that He is “far above all rule and authority” (Ephesians 1:21). • This moment confirms that spiritual warfare is not a battle of equals; Jesus commands, and the enemy reacts.
for we are many.The full disclosure exposes the depth of possession but also sets the stage for complete liberation (Mark 5:10-13). Truths to note: • Quantity of demons never equals superiority over Christ; “Greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world” (1 John 4:4). • The statement underscores the man’s helplessness apart from divine intervention, reminding us that salvation is entirely of the Lord (Psalm 3:8). • It highlights the reality of multiple, organized evil forces (Ephesians 6:12) yet simultaneously displays their collective submission to a single command from Jesus.
summaryMark 5:9 reveals that when Jesus confronts evil, He does so with personal authority, piercing questions, and sovereign control. The demons’ admission of being “Legion… many” magnifies not their power but Christ’s supremacy, for even vast spiritual forces must expose themselves and bow to His word. The verse assures believers that no matter how numerous or intimidating the oppression, the Lord’s authority is absolute, His deliverance complete, and His heart ever focused on restoring the one who is bound.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Greek “What [is]Τί(Ti)Interrogative / Indefinite Pronoun - Nominative Neuter Singular
Strong's 5101:Who, which, what, why. Probably emphatic of tis; an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what.yourσοι(soi)Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 2nd Person Singular
Strong's 4771:You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.name?”ὄνομά(onoma)Noun - Nominative Neuter Singular
Strong's 3686:Name, character, fame, reputation. From a presumed derivative of the base of ginosko; a 'name'.[Jesus] asked.ἐπηρώτα(epērōta)Verb - Imperfect Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 1905:To interrogate, question, demand of. From epi and erotao; to ask for, i.e. Inquire, seek.“Myμοι(moi)Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 1st Person Singular
Strong's 1473:I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.name [is]ὄνομά(onoma)Noun - Nominative Neuter Singular
Strong's 3686:Name, character, fame, reputation. From a presumed derivative of the base of ginosko; a 'name'.Legion,”Λεγιὼν(Legiōn)Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular
Strong's 3003:Of Latin origin; a 'legion', i.e. Roman regiment.he replied,αὐτῷ(autō)Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative Masculine 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 846:He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.“forὅτι(hoti)Conjunction
Strong's 3754:Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because.we areἐσμεν(esmen)Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Plural
Strong's 1510:I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.many.”πολλοί(polloi)Adjective - Nominative Masculine Plural
Strong's 4183:Much, many; often.
Links Mark 5:9 NIVMark 5:9 NLTMark 5:9 ESVMark 5:9 NASBMark 5:9 KJV
Mark 5:9 BibleApps.comMark 5:9 Biblia ParalelaMark 5:9 Chinese BibleMark 5:9 French BibleMark 5:9 Catholic Bible
NT Gospels: Mark 5:9 He asked him What is your name? (Mar Mk Mr) |
