When he was come down from the mountain, great multitudes followed him.

MATTHEW 8:1KJV
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Matthew 8:1 (KJV)

What does Matthew 8:1 mean?

Matthew 8:1 describes how, after Jesus came down from the mountain, large crowds began to follow him. This verse marks a transition from Jesus’ teaching on the mountain to his actions among the people.

Jesus had just finished delivering what is known as the Sermon on the Mount to his disciples and the gathered listeners. As he descends, the mention of "great multitudes" highlights the strong interest and curiosity people had in him, setting the stage for the miracles and interactions that follow in the next verses.

The Greek behind Matthew 8:1

  • "πολλοὶ" (polloi, G4183) — This word means "great" or "many," emphasizing that the crowds were not just present but were very large. The Greek underscores the scale of public attention Jesus was receiving.
  • "ὄχλοι" (ochloi, G3793) — This word for "multitudes" refers to crowds or large groups of people, often used in the Gospels to describe those drawn to Jesus' teaching and miracles. It suggests a diverse group, not just a few followers.
  • "κατέβη" (katebē, G2597) — This verb means "he came down," indicating a physical movement from a higher place (the mountain) to where the people were. The detail roots the scene in a real, geographic setting.

Why Matthew 8:1 matters

  • Matthew 8:1 signals a shift from Jesus’ teaching ministry (the Sermon on the Mount) to his healing and miracle-working ministry, showing both his words and actions.
  • The verse highlights the widespread interest in Jesus, which helps explain why the following stories involve people seeking him out for help and healing.
  • This transition also connects the authority of Jesus’ teaching with the authority he displays in his deeds, reinforcing the unity of his message and mission.

Where else these words appear

“mountain” Greek G3735 · used in 65 verses

  • Matthew 4:8 Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them;
  • Mark 11:1 And when they came nigh to Jerusalem, unto Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount of Olives, he sendeth forth two of his disciples,
  • John 6:15 When Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force, to make him a king, he departed again into a mountain himself alone.

“down” Greek G2597 · used in 80 verses

  • Matthew 3:16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:
  • Luke 22:44 And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground.
  • Acts 10:21 Then Peter went down to the men which were sent unto him from Cornelius; and said, Behold, I am he whom ye seek: what is the cause wherefore ye are come?

“followed” Greek G190 · used in 88 verses

  • Matthew 4:20 And they straightway left their nets, and followed him.
  • Mark 8:34 And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.
  • John 1:38 Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and saith unto them, What seek ye? They said unto him, Rabbi,(which is to say, being interpreted, Master,) where dwellest thou?