Mark 5 & 6

The Feeding of 5,000

The details that Mark provides add new dimensions to the story of the feeding of the 5,000. Details such as the crowd sitting on the green grass, let us know that this story probably happened in late winter or early spring. The fact that the groups were separated and counted in hundreds and in fifties let us know that an eyewitness recounted this story to Mark. The book of John tells us that this event took place prior to Passover which is celebrated in March or April. Bible scholars use these types of details to give us new understanding of biblical events.

Keep in mind that in addition to the estimated five thousand men there were women and children who were included in the meal.