Raising of Jairus' daughter

Raising of Jairus' Daughter is a miracle recounted in the New Testament of the Christian Bible, specifically in the Gospel of Mark (5:21–43), Gospel of Matthew (9:18–26), and Gospel of Luke (8:40–56). This event is a significant moment in the ministry of Jesus Christ, illustrating his power over death and his compassion towards those who seek his help in faith.

Biblical Account

The story begins with Jairus, a synagogue leader, who approaches Jesus, pleading for him to heal his critically ill twelve-year-old daughter. Jesus agrees and follows Jairus to his home. Along the way, a woman suffering from chronic bleeding touches Jesus' cloak and is healed, demonstrating Jesus' power and the importance of faith. Upon reaching Jairus' house, they are met with the news that the girl has died. Ignoring the mourners' disbelief, Jesus enters the room where the child lies, takes her by the hand, and tells her to get up. The girl immediately rises and walks around, to the amazement of all present. Jesus instructs them to give her something to eat and orders them not to tell anyone what had happened.

Interpretation and Significance

The Raising of Jairus' Daughter is rich in theological and symbolic significance. It is one of three instances in the Gospels where Jesus raises the dead, the others being the son of the widow of Nain and Lazarus. These miracles are seen as foretelling the Resurrection of Jesus, highlighting his mastery over life and death, and affirming his identity as the Son of God.

The miracle also emphasizes the importance of faith. Jairus, despite his high social standing, humbles himself before Jesus, demonstrating his belief in Jesus' power to heal. Similarly, the story of the woman with the issue of blood, interwoven with Jairus' story, underscores the theme that faith, even a seemingly small act of faith, is recognized and rewarded by Jesus.

Cultural and Historical Context

In the 1st-century Jewish context, the touching of a dead body would render a person ceremonially unclean. Jesus' act of taking the girl by the hand, therefore, also signifies his disregard for such purity laws in favor of compassion and healing. This action, along with his instruction for the girl to be given something to eat, underscores his concern for both the spiritual and physical needs of individuals.

In Art and Literature

The Raising of Jairus' Daughter has been a popular subject in Christian art and literature, symbolizing hope, resurrection, and the transformative power of faith. Artists and writers have drawn on this narrative to explore themes of life, death, and divine intervention.

See Also

• Miracles of Jesus
• Gospel of Mark
• Gospel of Matthew
• Gospel of Luke
• Resurrection