Devine Scripture

Mark 11:5

What does Mark 11:5 mean?

A plain-English look at Mark 11:5 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Mark 11:5 means

As the disciples unbound the colt, some bystanders questioned their actions, asking why they were untying the animal. This natural query highlights the unexpected nature of the disciples' task from an ordinary human perspective. It sets the scene for the divine explanation provided by Jesus, which the disciples are now prepared to deliver, demonstrating Jesus's forethought in preparing them for such an encounter.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And certain of them that stood there said unto them, What do ye, loosing the colt?

KJV

King James Version · 1611

And certain of them that stood there said unto them, What do ye, loosing the colt?

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And certain of them that stood there said unto them, What do ye, loosing the colt?

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And some of those who were there said to them, What are you doing, taking the ass?

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

and certain of those standing there said to them, `What do ye--loosing the colt?'

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

And some of them that stood there said to them: What do you loosing the colt?

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And some of those who stood there said to them, What are ye doing, loosing the colt?

Context

This verse introduces the anticipated interrogation that Jesus prepared His disciples for in verse 3. It contextualizes the need for the specific response Jesus provided, demonstrating the accuracy of His foreknowledge. This interaction is a brief interlude before the disciples bring the colt to Jesus, leading directly to the heart of the triumphal entry narrative.

v.4And they went away, and found a colt tied at the door without in the open street; and they loose him.

v.5This passage

v.6And they said unto them even as Jesus had said: and they let them go.

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