Mark 7:31 (KJV)

What does Mark 7:31 mean?

Mark 7:31 describes Jesus leaving the region around Tyre and Sidon and traveling to the Sea of Galilee by way of the area known as Decapolis. This verse shows Jesus moving through mostly non-Jewish territories before returning to a familiar area where many of his miracles took place.

In this part of Mark, Jesus is traveling with his disciples. The verse highlights his journey through regions with mixed populations, including Gentiles. The mention of Tyre, Sidon, and Decapolis gives a sense of the wide area Jesus covered and sets the stage for the miracles and teachings that follow in the next verses.

The Greek behind Mark 7:31

• "Δεκάπολις" (Dekapolis): This word refers to a group of ten cities east of the Sea of Galilee, known for their Greek influence and mostly Gentile population. Mentioning Decapolis helps readers understand that Jesus was reaching people outside traditional Jewish areas.
• "μέσον" (meson): Translated as "midst," this word suggests that Jesus traveled through the heart or central part of these regions, not just skirting the edges. This detail emphasizes the intentional path Jesus took through Gentile territory.

Why Mark 7:31 matters

• Mark 7:31 shows that Jesus intentionally traveled through Gentile regions, highlighting the broad reach of his ministry beyond just Jewish communities.
• The verse connects to the surrounding stories where Jesus interacts with non-Jews, underlining a theme in Mark’s Gospel of breaking down barriers between people groups.
• Mentioning specific places like Tyre, Sidon, and Decapolis helps readers track Jesus’ movements and understand the diverse settings of his ministry.