Devine Scripture

Mark 9:33

What does Mark 9:33 mean?

A plain-English look at Mark 9:33 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Mark 9:33 means

Upon reaching Capernaum and entering a house, Jesus confronted His disciples by asking them what they had been discussing on their journey. His question, though seemingly simple, reveals His awareness of their private conversation. This sets the stage for exposing their hidden pride and ambition, gently forcing them to confront their earthly desires in contrast to the spiritual humility He consistently taught. His knowledge demonstrates His omniscience and desire to refine His followers.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And they came to Capernaum: and when he was in the house he asked them, What were ye reasoning on the way?

KJV

King James Version · 1611

And he came to Capernaum: and being in the house he asked them, What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way?

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And they came to Capernaum: and when he was in the house he asked them, What were ye reasoning on the way?

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And they came to Capernaum: and when he was in the house, he put the question to them, What were you talking about on the way?

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

And he came to Capernaum, and being in the house, he was questioning them, `What were ye reasoning in the way among yourselves?'

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

But they held their peace, for in the way they had disputed among themselves, which of them should be the greatest.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And he came to Capernaum, and being in the house, he asked them, Of what were ye reasoning by the way?

Context

This verse marks their arrival in Capernaum and Jesus' direct inquiry into the disciples' private conversation. It immediately follows their failure to understand His predictions of suffering and resurrection, setting the stage for Jesus to expose their worldly ambitions. This confrontation provides the essential context for His subsequent profound teaching on true greatness and humility, addressing their foundational misunderstandings.

v.32But they understood not the saying, and were afraid to ask him.

v.33This passage

v.34But they held their peace: for they had disputed one with another on the way, who was the greatest.

Cross references

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

  • Hebrews 4:13

    And there is no creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and laid open before the eyes of him with whom we have to do.

  • Revelation 2:23

    And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he that searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto each one of you according to your works.

  • Psalms 139:1

    O Jehovah, thou hast searched me, and knownme.

  • John 21:17

    He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of John, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.

  • Luke 9:46

    And there arose a reasoning among them, which of them was the greatest.

  • Matthew 18:1

    In that hour came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?

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