King James Version

What Does Mark 1:33 Mean?

Mark 1:33 in the King James Version says “And all the city was gathered together at the door. — study this verse from Mark chapter 1 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

And all the city was gathered together at the door.

Mark 1:33 · KJV


Context

31

And he came and took her by the hand, and lifted her up; and immediately the fever left her, and she ministered unto them.

32

And at even, when the sun did set, they brought unto him all that were diseased, and them that were possessed with devils.

33

And all the city was gathered together at the door.

34

And he healed many that were sick of divers diseases, and cast out many devils; and suffered not the devils to speak, because they knew him. to speak: or, to say that they knew him

35

And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The entire city gathering at the door creates a vivid image of humanity seeking Christ. This prophetically pictures the eschatological gathering of God's people and present spiritual reality—all must come to the door of Christ for entrance into God's kingdom (cf. John 10:9). The passive voice suggests divine orchestration in drawing this multitude.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

First-century Palestinian homes had a single door opening to an outdoor courtyard. The crowd would have filled the courtyard and surrounding area. Capernaum's compact layout meant neighbors lived in close proximity, facilitating rapid communication about Christ's location.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this physical gathering at a door illustrate the exclusive nature of salvation through Christ alone?
  2. What does God's drawing of this multitude teach us about His sovereignty in evangelism?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 9 words
καὶ1 of 9

And

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

2 of 9
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

πόλις3 of 9

the city

G4172

a town (properly, with walls, of greater or less size)

ὅλη4 of 9

all

G3650

"whole" or "all", i.e., complete (in extent, amount, time or degree), especially (neuter) as noun or adverb

ἐπισυνηγμένη5 of 9

gathered together

G1996

to collect upon the same place

ἦν6 of 9

was

G2258

i (thou, etc.) was (wast or were)

πρὸς7 of 9

at

G4314

a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,

τὴν8 of 9
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

θύραν9 of 9

the door

G2374

a portal or entrance (the opening or the closure, literally or figuratively)


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Mark. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Mark 1:33 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Mark 1:33 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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