King James Version

What Does Mark 4:36 Mean?

Mark 4:36 in the King James Version says “And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him other ... — study this verse from Mark chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him other little ships.

Mark 4:36 · KJV


Context

34

But without a parable spake he not unto them: and when they were alone , he expounded all things to his disciples.

35

And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side.

36

And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him other little ships.

37

And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full.

38

And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish?


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The disciples took Jesus 'even as he was in the ship'—no preparation or provisions, just immediate departure. The phrase 'even as he was' (ὡς ἦν) suggests Jesus remained in the teaching boat, exhausted from ministry. 'There were also with him other little ships'—multiple boats crossed together. This detail, characteristic of Mark's vivid eyewitness account, sets stage for miracle witnessed by many. Jesus' exhaustion is significant: the incarnate Son experienced genuine human limitations, fatigue requiring rest. His humanity makes His deity's revelation more striking—tired man who commands storms demonstrates two natures united.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Small fishing boats on Sea of Galilee typically held 10-15 people. Multiple boats suggest large group accompanying Jesus. Evening crossings allowed fishermen to avoid daytime heat while positioning for night fishing. The detail of 'other ships' provides multiple witnesses to coming storm and miracle. Ancient boats used sails when wind permitted, oars when necessary. The Sea of Galilee's unpredictable weather made crossings potentially dangerous, though experienced fishermen usually navigated safely. This crossing would test even veterans.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Jesus' genuine exhaustion demonstrate His full humanity and make His deity more remarkable?
  2. What does immediate obedience 'even as he was' teach about responding to Jesus' commands without delay?
  3. How do you respond when Jesus calls you to action despite exhaustion or lack of preparation?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 18 words
καὶ1 of 18

And

G2532

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

ἀφέντες2 of 18

when they had sent away

G863

to send forth, in various applications (as follow)

τὸν3 of 18
G3588

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

ὄχλον4 of 18

the multitude

G3793

a throng (as borne along); by implication, the rabble; by extension, a class of people; figuratively, a riot

παραλαμβάνουσιν5 of 18

they took

G3880

to receive near, i.e., associate with oneself (in any familiar or intimate act or relation); by analogy, to assume an office; figuratively, to learn

αὐτοῦ6 of 18

him

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

ὡς7 of 18

even as

G5613

which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)

ἦν8 of 18

he was

G2258

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

ἐν9 of 18

in

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

τῷ10 of 18
G3588

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

πλοίῳ11 of 18

the ship

G4143

a sailer, i.e., vessel

καὶ12 of 18

And

G2532

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

ἄλλα13 of 18

other

G243

"else," i.e., different (in many applications)

δὲ14 of 18

And

G1161

but, and, etc

πλοιάρια15 of 18

little ships

G4142

a boat

ἦν16 of 18

he was

G2258

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

μετ'17 of 18

with

G3326

properly, denoting accompaniment; "amid" (local or causal); modified variously according to the case (genitive association, or accusative succession)

αὐτοῦ18 of 18

him

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons


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 4:36 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 4:36 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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