Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Mark 6:36

"send them away, that they may go into the country and villages round about, and buy themselves somewhat to eat." — Mark 6:36 (ASV)

Jesus’ disciples became concerned for the crowd. It was late in the day; and in that distant place, there was little possibility of obtaining food. Out of concern for the crowd, the disciples suggested Jesus dismiss the crowd to get food in the nearby towns.