Ephphatha
TextsWhat is the meaning of Ephphatha in the Bible?
The Aramaic word 'Ephphatha' means 'Be opened' and appears in Mark 7:34, where Jesus uses it to heal a deaf man, reflecting the linguistic context of first-century Judea.
TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding this Aramaic term provides insight into the linguistic environment of Jesus' ministry and emphasizes the direct, personal nature of the healing narrative in the Gospel of Mark.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Manuscript & Literary Context: Notice how Ephphatha functions as an authoritative historical witness connecting earlier prophetic promises with scripture's broader fulfillment.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Ephphatha in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Ephphatha clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Mark 7:34
Related Topics
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Ephphatha." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/ephphatha/