Mark 5:22-24

Synagogue rulers were not priests but lay leaders who were responsible for the worship services and the synagogue’s physical facilities. As such, Jairus (the Greek form of the Hebrew Jair, "he will give light or awaken;" cf. Numbers 32:41; Judges 10:3) undoubtedly enjoyed much respect in his community. Most healing stories are anonymous, so perhaps Mark included Jairus’ name because of its connection with Jesus’ miracle of awakening the girl to life (cf. Mark 5:39). Laying hands on a sick person for healing associated the power of the healer with the person needing deliverance (cf. Mark 6:5; Mark 7:32; Mark 8:23; Mark 8:25).

Upon returning to Galilee, Jesus immediately began to serve in response to this urgent emotional plea, but the thronging crowd slowed His progress.