Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Mark 5:21

"And when Jesus had crossed over again in the boat unto the other side, a great multitude was gathered unto him; and he was by the sea." — Mark 5:21 (ASV)

On the west side of the lake again, Jesus was probably busy teaching when he was interrupted by the plea of someone who belonged to the Jewish group of “synagogue rulers” (GK 801). These were laymen whose responsibilities were administrative, not priestly, and included such things as looking after the building and supervising the worship. Jairus’s need was so urgent that he jettisoned all dignity and pride, fell at Jesus’ feet, and begged for help. He had apparently heard about Jesus and believed that he could heal his child. Jesus gives no oral reply; rather, he set out with Jairus to go to the child, followed by a large crowd of curiosity seekers.