But be shod with sandals; and not put on two coats.

MARK 6:9KJV
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Mark 6:9 (KJV)

What does Mark 6:9 mean?

Mark 6:9 instructs Jesus’ disciples to wear sandals but not to take an extra coat with them as they travel. The verse highlights Jesus’ directions for how simply his followers should travel when he sends them out.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking directly to his disciples as he sends them out in pairs to preach and heal. He gives them practical instructions about what to bring, emphasizing reliance on God and the hospitality of others rather than on their own resources. The mention of sandals and only one coat shows a focus on minimalism and trust during their mission.

The Greek behind Mark 6:9

  • “Sandals” (σανδάλια, sandalia): This word refers to simple footwear, showing Jesus allowed basic protection for their feet, unlike some stricter travel rules in other traditions.
  • “Coats” (χιτῶνας, chitōnas): This word means an undergarment or tunic. By saying not to wear two, Jesus is telling them not to bring extra clothing, underlining the idea of traveling light and depending on provision along the way.

Why Mark 6:9 matters

  • Mark 6:9 clarifies that Jesus’ instructions were not about total poverty but about simplicity and trust, allowing for basic needs like footwear but discouraging extra possessions.
  • This verse connects to the wider passage by showing how Jesus prepared his disciples for a mission that depended on faith and the kindness of others, not on their own preparations.
  • The details about what to bring help readers see the practical side of Jesus’ teaching and the real-life challenges his followers faced.

Where else these words appear

“sandals” Greek G4547 · used in 2 verses

  • Acts 12:8 And the angel said unto him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals. And so he did. And he saith unto him, Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me.

“shod” Greek G5265 · used in 3 verses

  • Acts 12:8 And the angel said unto him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals. And so he did. And he saith unto him, Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me.
  • Ephesians 6:15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;

“coats” Greek G5509 · used in 10 verses

  • Matthew 5:40 And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloke also.
  • Luke 3:11 He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise.
  • John 19:23 Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took his garments, and made four parts, to every soldier a part; and also his coat: now the coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout.

“on” Greek G1746 · used in 26 verses

  • Matthew 6:25 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?
  • Luke 24:49 And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.
  • Ephesians 4:24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.