Topical Encyclopedia Biblical Reference: The phrase "Talitha Cumi" is found in the New Testament, specifically in the Gospel of Mark 5:41. It is an Aramaic expression spoken by Jesus Christ during one of His miraculous healings. Context and Narrative: The account of "Talitha Cumi" occurs within the broader narrative of Jesus' ministry, as recorded in the Synoptic Gospels. In Mark 5:21-43, Jesus is approached by Jairus, a synagogue ruler, whose daughter is gravely ill. Jairus implores Jesus to come and heal his daughter. As Jesus makes His way to Jairus' house, He is delayed by a crowd and the healing of a woman with a bleeding condition. During this time, messengers arrive to inform Jairus that his daughter has died, suggesting that he should no longer trouble Jesus. Despite the news, Jesus encourages Jairus with the words, "Do not be afraid; only believe" (Mark 5:36). Upon arriving at the house, Jesus encounters a scene of mourning and weeping. He tells the mourners, "The child is not dead, but asleep" (Mark 5:39), a statement met with disbelief and ridicule. Jesus then takes the child's parents and His disciples, Peter, James, and John, into the room where the child lies. In a moment of divine authority and compassion, Jesus takes the girl by the hand and says, "Talitha cumi," which is translated as, "Little girl, I say to you, get up!" (Mark 5:41). Immediately, the girl rises and begins to walk around, to the amazement of all present. Theological Significance: The miracle of "Talitha Cumi" underscores several key theological themes within the Christian faith. Firstly, it highlights Jesus' authority over life and death, affirming His divine nature and power. The raising of Jairus' daughter serves as a foretaste of the resurrection, pointing to the ultimate victory over death that Jesus would accomplish through His own resurrection. Secondly, the account emphasizes the importance of faith. Jesus' words to Jairus, "Do not be afraid; only believe," serve as a call to trust in His power and goodness, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable circumstances. The narrative illustrates that faith in Jesus can transcend despair and bring about miraculous transformation. Lastly, the use of the Aramaic phrase "Talitha Cumi" reflects the personal and intimate nature of Jesus' ministry. By speaking in the girl's native tongue, Jesus demonstrates His compassion and accessibility, reaching out to individuals in their own context and need. Cultural and Historical Context: Aramaic was the common spoken language in Judea during the time of Jesus, and its use in the Gospel of Mark provides authenticity to the narrative. The inclusion of the original Aramaic words, followed by their translation, suggests the eyewitness nature of the account and serves to preserve the exact words spoken by Jesus. The role of Jairus as a synagogue ruler adds another layer of significance. As a leader within the Jewish community, Jairus' approach to Jesus indicates a recognition of Jesus' authority and power, despite potential social and religious pressures. Conclusion: The account of "Talitha Cumi" remains a powerful testament to Jesus' compassion, authority, and the transformative power of faith. It continues to inspire believers to trust in Christ's ability to bring life and hope in the midst of despair. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Talitha CumiTALITHA CUMI ta-le'-tha koo'-me (talitha koumi): Derived from the Aramaic Talyetha' qumi, "damsel, arise"), which in the New Testament manuscripts is transliterated variously (Westcott-Hort, Taleitha koum, otherwise Talitha koumi). We have no data for determining how far Jesus employed the Aramaic language, but Mark (5:41) notes its use in this tender incident, and there is strong probability that Aramaic was used normally, if not exclusively, by Christ. There is, however, no ground for attributing any magical significance to the use of the Aramaic words in connection with this miracle. Smith's Bible Dictionary Talitha Cumitwo Syriac words, (Mark 5:41) signifying damsel, arise . Library Talitha Cumi Copies of Christ's Manner Called Back. Four Miracles With Jairus The Dying Child and the Suffering Woman. Spiritual Resurrection Lord of Life and Love Cont. With Jairus Cont. 'Let Him Alone' Resources Who was Jairus in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of talitha cumi? | GotQuestions.org What language did Jesus speak? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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