Mark 10:50 (KJV)

What does Mark 10:50 mean?

Mark 10:50 describes a blind man, Bartimaeus, throwing aside his cloak, getting up, and coming to Jesus after Jesus calls for him. This action shows Bartimaeus’s eagerness and determination to respond to Jesus, leaving behind what he had in order to seek help.

In the story, Jesus is traveling through Jericho, and Bartimaeus is sitting by the roadside begging. When Bartimaeus hears that Jesus is near, he calls out for mercy. After Jesus invites him to come forward, Bartimaeus quickly gets up, leaves his outer garment behind, and approaches Jesus. The verse highlights Bartimaeus’s faith and readiness to act when given the opportunity.

The Greek behind Mark 10:50

• ἱμάτιον (himation, G2440): This word means "garment" or "cloak." For a beggar, the outer garment was valuable, often used for warmth or to collect alms. Bartimaeus casting it away suggests he is not worried about losing it, showing his focus on reaching Jesus.
• ἀναστάς (anastas, G450): This word means "having risen" or "getting up." The Greek here gives a sense of immediate action, emphasizing Bartimaeus’s quick response to Jesus’s call.
• προσήλθεν (prosēlthen, G2064): This word means "came to" or "approached." The Greek carries the sense of drawing near, highlighting that Bartimaeus actively moves toward Jesus rather than waiting for Jesus to come to him.

Why Mark 10:50 matters

• Mark 10:50 clears up any idea that Bartimaeus was passive; instead, he acts decisively and energetically when Jesus calls, showing a model of faith in action.
• The verse emphasizes the cost and risk Bartimaeus takes by leaving his garment behind, hinting at his trust that Jesus will meet his need.
• Mark 10:50 connects to the wider passage by setting up the moment when Jesus heals Bartimaeus, showing that faith often involves a bold step toward Jesus before the answer comes.