Devine Scripture

Mark 6:40

What does Mark 6:40 mean?

A plain-English look at Mark 6:40 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Mark 6:40 means

Mark 6:40 specifies that they sat down in ranks, by hundreds and by fifties. The precise arrangement indicates care, order, and the large scale of the crowd. Grouping by hundreds and fifties allowed efficient distribution and accounted for the whole assembly, showing Jesus’ organized approach to communal needs. The detail underscores the magnitude of the event without relying on hyperbole, and it prepares the logistical explanation for how a small amount could be distributed effectively once multiplied. The verse emphasizes compassion, order, and practical wisdom in ministry.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And they sat down in ranks, by hundreds, and by fifties.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

And they sat down in ranks, by hundreds, and by fifties.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And they sat down in ranks, by hundreds, and by fifties.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And they were placed in groups, by hundreds and by fifties.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

and they sat down in squares, by hundreds, and by fifties.

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

And they sat down in ranks, by hundreds and by fifties.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And they sat down in ranks by hundreds and by fifties.

Context

This verse continues the preparation for feeding, following Jesus’ command to sit on green grass (verse 39). The grouping into hundreds and fifties helps explain the orderly feeding and amplifies the miracle’s scale, leading into the symbolic act of blessing, breaking, and distribution in verse 41. The context shows Jesus’ concern for order and the disciples’ role in serving such a large, organized crowd.

v.39And he commanded them that all should sit down by companies upon the green grass.

v.40This passage

v.41And he took the five loaves and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed, and brake the loaves; and he gave to the disciples to set before them; and the two fishes divided he among them all.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Luke 9:14

    For they were about five thousand men. And he said unto his disciples, Make them sit down in companies, about fifty each.

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