And, behold, there cometh one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name; and when he saw him, he fell at his feet,

MARK 5:22KJV
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Mark 5:22 (KJV)

What does Mark 5:22 mean?

Mark 5:22 describes how a leader from the local synagogue, named Jairus, approaches Jesus and falls at his feet in a gesture of deep respect and desperation. This moment shows that even someone with authority and status is coming to Jesus for help, recognizing his power.

In this scene, Mark is narrating an event where Jesus is met by Jairus, who is identified as one of the synagogue rulers—a respected position in Jewish society. Jairus’s act of falling at Jesus’s feet is striking, as it signals humility and urgency, especially considering his social standing. This sets the stage for the story that follows, where Jairus seeks Jesus’s help for his sick daughter.

The Greek behind Mark 5:22

  • συναγωγῆς (synagōgēs, "synagogue"): This word refers to the local Jewish place of worship and community leadership. Calling Jairus a "ruler of the synagogue" highlights his respected role and the significance of his coming to Jesus.
  • ἔπεσεν (epesen, "fell"): The Greek verb here means to fall down, often in a posture of pleading or worship. Jairus’s action is not casual; it shows deep need and reverence, which would have been unusual for a man of his standing.

Why Mark 5:22 matters

  • Mark 5:22 highlights the humility of Jairus, a respected leader, showing that people from all walks of life turned to Jesus when in need.
  • The verse prepares the reader for a dramatic story of faith and urgency, as Jairus’s approach to Jesus is both public and desperate.
  • By naming Jairus and his role, Mark grounds the story in a real, historical setting, making the account more vivid and relatable for readers.

Where else these words appear

“Jairus” Greek G2383 · used in 2 verses

  • Luke 8:41 And, behold, there came a man named Jairus, and he was a ruler of the synagogue: and he fell down at Jesus' feet, and besought him that he would come into his house:

“synagogue” Greek G752 · used in 9 verses

  • Mark 5:35 While he yet spake, there came from the ruler of the synagogue's house certain which said, Thy daughter is dead: why troublest thou the Master any further?
  • Mark 5:38 And he cometh to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, and seeth the tumult, and them that wept and wailed greatly.
  • Acts 13:15 And after the reading of the law and the prophets the rulers of the synagogue sent unto them, saying, Ye men and brethren, if ye have any word of exhortation for the people, say on.

“fell” Greek G4098 · used in 85 verses

  • Matthew 2:11 And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.
  • Luke 8:6 And some fell upon a rock; and as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture.
  • Romans 14:4 Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand.

“feet” Greek G4228 · used in 86 verses

  • Matthew 4:6 And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.
  • Luke 24:40 And when he had thus spoken, he shewed them his hands and his feet.
  • Acts 16:24 Who, having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks.