Article Title
“And They Were All Astonished (?)” The Verb ἐκπλήσσω, Competition, and Mark’s Narrative
Abstract
This essay discusses the key Greek verb e0kplh/ssw in Mark’s gospel, which is typically rendered as “astonished” or “amazed” in English translations. However, outside of the New Testament the term usually connotes a much more emotional, visceral response than mere amazement; relaying a sense of anger, frustration, and the threat of violence. Accordingly, I argue that standard modern renderings of this verb in Mark and the other Synoptic Gospels are not only inaccurate; they also detract from the overall depth and meaning of the passages in which it appears. Through a reexamination of this verb in concert with an analysis of the historical and social frameworks of the gospel texts, I will show how an accurate reading of e0kplh/ssw can open up new possibilities for interpreting Mark 6.1-6 and other Markan passages where the term appears. Specifically, I will argue that the verb always is used to highlight a turning point in the gospel, marked by emotional confrontations and the recurring issues of pedagogy, authority, and social status that create significant tension within the narrative. Lastly, I will highlight many interesting analogies between Mark’s itinerant prophet Jesus and texts of the moral philosophers. In doing so, a more accurate reading of the passage is possible, which can help to uncover its original first century context.
Recommended Citation
desrosiers, nathaniel
(2023)
"“And They Were All Astonished (?)” The Verb ἐκπλήσσω, Competition, and Mark’s Narrative,"
Journal of Religious Competition in Antiquity: Vol. 3:
Iss.
1, Article 3.
Available at:
https://soar.stonehill.edu/jrca/vol3/iss1/3