King James Version

What Does Mark 3:1 Mean?

Mark 3:1 in the King James Version says “And he entered again into the synagogue; and there was a man there which had a withered hand.” — study this verse from Mark chapter 3 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And he entered again into the synagogue; and there was a man there which had a withered hand.”

Mark 3:1 · KJV

Context

1

And he entered again into the synagogue; and there was a man there which had a withered hand.

2

And they watched him, whether he would heal him on the sabbath day; that they might accuse him.

3

And he saith unto the man which had the withered hand, Stand forth . Stand forth: Gr. Arise, stand forth in the midst

Read Mark 3 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Jesus 'entered again into the synagogue'—returning to public worship and teaching despite rising opposition. The phrase 'again' (πάλιν) indicates repeated pattern—Jesus regularly participated in synagogue worship, demonstrating continuity with Jewish worship forms while transforming their content. The man 'with a withered hand' suffered chronic disability—the perfect participle indicates long-standing condition. 'Withered' suggests muscle atrophy, making the hand functionally useless. Jesus' encounter sets up another Sabbath controversy, testing whether Jesus will prioritize mercy over Pharisaic regulation. The man's passive presence contrasts with active faith elsewhere—he didn't seek Jesus but became the object of compassionate initiative.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Synagogues served as local Jewish worship centers in most towns with Jewish population. Sabbath services included Torah reading and teaching. Physical disabilities often resulted in social marginalization and economic hardship—no disability support, limited employment options, dependence on charity. Yet Jewish law welcomed disabled into worship. Jesus' willingness to heal on Sabbath challenged Pharisaic priorities.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Jesus' regular synagogue attendance demonstrate that authentic faith engages with religious community despite opposition?
  2. What 'withered' areas of your life need Jesus' healing touch?
  3. How does this passage challenge you to view disabled or marginalized people as Jesus did?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 14 words
καὶ1 of 14

“And”

G2532

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

εἰσῆλθεν2 of 14

“he entered”

G1525

to enter (literally or figuratively)

πάλιν3 of 14

“again”

G3825

(adverbially) anew, i.e., (of place) back, (of time) once more, or (conjunctionally) furthermore or on the other hand

εἰς4 of 14

“into”

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

τὴν5 of 14
G3588

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

συναγωγήν6 of 14

“the synagogue”

G4864

an assemblage of persons; specially, a jewish "synagogue" (the meeting or the place); by analogy, a christian church

καὶ7 of 14

“And”

G2532

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

ἦν8 of 14

“there was”

G2258

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

ἐκεῖ9 of 14

“there”

G1563

there; by extension, thither

ἄνθρωπος10 of 14

“a man”

G444

man-faced, i.e., a human being

ἐξηραμμένην11 of 14

“a withered”

G3583

to desiccate; by implication, to shrivel, to mature

ἔχων12 of 14

“which had”

G2192

to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio

τὴν13 of 14
G3588

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

χεῖρα14 of 14

“hand”

G5495

the hand (literally or figuratively (power); especially (by hebraism) a means or instrument)

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 3:1 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 3:1 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Matthew 12:9-14Luke 6:6-11Mark 1:211 Kings 13:4

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