What does Matthew 8:30 mean?

Explanation

The verse Matthew 8:30 from the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible is a part of the narrative where Jesus heals two demon-possessed men.

The verse reads, "And there was a good way off from them an herd of many swine feeding." In this passage, the "them" refers to Jesus and the two demon-possessed men whom He is about to heal.

The presence of the swine, a type of pig, is significant because they represent an unclean animal according to Jewish dietary laws found in Leviticus.

The Gospel of Matthew is establishing the scene right before Jesus performs a miracle by allowing the evil spirits to go into the herd of swine, which then rush down into the sea and perish.

Historical Context

Matthew 8:30 is set in the region of the Gadarenes or Gergesenes, located across the Sea of Galilee from Galilee, where Jesus had his most active ministry.

This region was primarily populated by non-Jews (Gentiles) during Jesus' time who would not have followed the Jewish dietary laws, hence the presence of pigs.

The mentioning of swine suggests the story may have taken place in a predominantly Gentile area, highlighting Jesus' ministry reaching beyond Jewish communities.

Theological Insights

From a Christian theological perspective, this verse sets the stage for a dramatic display of Christ's authority over evil spirits. Different theological interpretations focus on why Jesus would permit the demons to enter the swine.

Some view it as a demonstration of the worth of a human soul over animals, while others see it as a lesson on the destructive nature of evil. Still, others interpret Jesus' actions as a commentary on the unclean livelihood of the Gentiles in the area.

Practical Applications

Practically, this verse serves as a background for the miracle that follows, but it may be seen as a call for believers to recognize the deliberate choices Christ makes during His ministry, where He goes, whom He interacts with, and how He exercises His power.

One can apply this understanding by recognizing the importance of context, background, and considering the ripple effects of one's actions in daily life, especially when dealing with issues of spiritual warfare and deliverance.

Cross-References

• Mark 5:11-13: "And there was there nigh unto the mountains a great herd of swine feeding.

And all the devils besought him, saying, Send us into the swine, that we may enter into them.

And forthwith Jesus gave them leave.

And the unclean spirits went out, and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the sea, (they were about two thousand;) and were choked in the sea."

• Luke 8:32-33: "And there was there an herd of many swine feeding on the mountain: and they besought him that he would suffer them to enter into them.

And he suffered them.

Then went the devils out of the man, and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the lake, and were choked."

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the term used for "swine" or "pigs" is "χοίρων" (choirōn). This word is specifically used for domesticated pigs, which were commonly raised for food in the Gentile regions.

The term "feeding" is translated from the Greek "βοσκομένων" (boskomenon), which refers to the act of grazing or eating pasture.

The term suggests that pigs were engaging in a typical daily routine, oblivious to the extraordinary event about to take place among them.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The presence of pigs and their subsequent destruction can be compared to various ancient myths and religious interpretations where animals are symbols of unclean or evil forces.

For instance, in some cultures, certain animals were regarded as embodiments of deities or spirits, either good or evil.

The act of demons entering pigs, as described in Matthew, aligns with a worldview that sees the natural world as deeply intertwined with the spiritual or supernatural realms.

Scientific Perspectives

From a modern scientific standpoint, the behaviors described in this verse may raise questions about animal behavior and the impact of external factors on it.

However, science typically does not engage with the supernatural or miraculous aspects of religious texts. The significant point from a scientific perspective would be the herd's behavior as a response to some stimuli, although the text attributes it to supernatural possession and self-destruction.

Commentaries

Biblical commentaries offer differing insights into this verse.

One common theme among scholars is the observation of Jesus' authority over the spirit realm.

William Barclay notes the psychological relief and social restoration that this miracle brought to the demon-possessed men.

Matthew Henry's Commentary points to the destructive nature of demons that is evident in their request to enter the pigs.

John Calvin focuses on the mercy of Christ shed even towards those who are not part of the Jewish community, illustrating the universal scope of His mission.

Overall, commentators tend to emphasize the significance of this event as a display of Christ's power and a foreshadowing of the Gospel penetrating into Gentile regions.