Matthew 14:36

Hebrew Bible Modern 1977

ויבקשו ממנו כי יגעו רק בציצת בגדו וכל הנגעים נושעו:

What Does This Mean?

This verse describes people who believed that just touching the edge of Jesus' clothing could heal them, and those who did were completely healed. No one is speaking directly in this verse; it's a narrative describing an event.

Explained for Children

Imagine if your favorite superhero had magical sneakers. If you touched even a tiny part of their shoes, you would feel better instantly! That’s what happened with Jesus. People just needed to touch the corner of his clothes and they got all better!

Historical Background

Matthew, an apostle who was also a tax collector, wrote this Gospel around A.D. 80-90 for Jewish Christians in Roman Palestine. The story reflects the cultural belief that physical contact with something holy could bring healing.

Living It Out Today

Today, we can apply this by understanding that Jesus still offers us his grace and healing power through our faith and actions. Just like people believed touching Jesus' garment would heal them, we trust in God's promises to guide us and help us overcome difficulties.

Topics

• healing
• faith
• touching Jesus
• miracles
• grace
• salvation

Related Verses

• Mark 5:27-34
• Luke 8:43-48
• Exodus 19:20-22
• James 5:14-16
• John 11:38-44

Recommended Reading

Commentary Matthew Commentaries → Get This Bible Hebrew Bible Modern Study Bible →

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to touch the hem of someone's garment?

In biblical times, touching the edge or fringe (hem) of a person’s clothing was a gesture that symbolized seeking blessing or healing. It shows deep respect and faith in the power of the person whose clothes were touched.

How does this verse relate to our understanding of God's grace today?

This verse illustrates how God's grace operates through faith, showing that even a small gesture like touching Jesus’ garment can lead to miraculous healing. Today, it reminds us that we receive God’s grace and blessings through simple acts of faith.

Can this kind of miracle happen today?

While physical healings still occur in the Christian community, they are less common than in biblical times. What's more important is the healing of our souls through Jesus’ grace and teachings, which can be experienced daily.

Why did people believe touching just a part of Jesus' garment could help them?

The cultural belief was that if something had power or holiness, even a small part of it could transfer some of its qualities. People believed Jesus was holy and powerful, so any part of his clothing would carry healing properties.