By hundreds, and by fifties - " That is," says Mr. Wesley, "fifty in a rank, and a hundred in file. So, a hundred multiplied by fifty, made just five thousand." But if they sat fifty deep, how could the disciples conveniently serve them with the bread and fish? read more
And blessed - I think the word God should be inserted here, as in Matthew 14:19 . See the note there. The food we receive from God is already blessed, and does not stand in need of being blessed by man; but God, who gives it, deserves our warmest thanksgivings, as frequently as we are called to partake of his bounty. read more
Twelve baskets - These were either the baskets used by the disciples, see Matthew 14:20 , or baskets belonging to some of the multitude, who might have brought some with them to carry provisions, or other things necessary for the sick, whom they brought to Christ to be healed. read more
Were about five thousand - ὡσει , about, is omitted by a great majority of the best MSS. and by the principal versions. It is wanting in several editions: Bengel, Wetstein, and Griesbach, leave it out of the text. It is omitted by some in the parallel place, Matthew 14:21 , but it stands without any variation in Luke 9:14 , and John 6:10 . This miracle is mentioned by all the four evangelists. It is one of the most astonishing that Christ has wrought. It is a miracle which could not... read more
To the other side before unto Bethsaida - John says, John 6:17 , to Capernaum. It is probable our Lord ordered them to steer to one or other of these two places, which were about four miles distant, and on the same side of the sea of Galilee. read more
The ship was in the midst of the sea - See all the parts of this wonderful transaction considered, on Matthew 14:22-33 ; (note). read more
They supposed it had been a spirit - That is, by whom the storm had been raised. read more
Their heart was hardened - See this explained Matthew 14:33 ; (note). read more
The land of Gennesaret - This country lay on the coast of the sea of Galilee: it is described by Josephus as being exceedingly pleasant and fertile. It had its name of Gennesaret from גן , gen , a garden, and סר sar , a prince, either because the king had a garden there, or because of its great fertility. read more
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Adam Clarke's Commentary on the Bible - Mark 6:34
Much people, etc. - See this miracle explained on Matthew 14:14 ; (note), etc. read more