Definition: And he asked him, What [is] thy name? And he answered, saying, My name [is] Legion: for we are many.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that passage from Mark 5:9. It’s a really interesting and somewhat unsettling verse in the Bible. Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: Jesus is visiting a town where a man has died after being poisoned by a viper. The man is still alive, but he’s incredibly ill and seems to be dying very quickly. He’s clearly suffering immensely. What Mark 5:9 says: “And he asked him, What is thy name? And he answered, saying, My name is Legion: for we are many.” What it means – a little more deeply: The Context: This verse comes after Jesus has examined the man and told him to rest. It's a moment of intense focus on suffering. "My Name is Legion": This is where the surprise comes in. Jesus isn’t saying he is Legion. He’s calling himself the name of Legion. “Legion” refers to a huge, powerful group of people – likely a large crowd. The Significance & Interpretation: This is a very strange and symbolic statement. Here's what it suggests: He’s Trying to Defend Himself: The phrase “My name is Legion” isn't a declaration of arrogance or power. It’s a desperate attempt to avoid being identified as something that would be seen as a threat, a destroyer, or a force to be feared. He’s trying to shield himself from judgment. He's Seeking to Diminish the Significance: By saying his name is “Legion,” he's subtly implying that his presence and power are less significant than the group of people around him. It’s a way to create distance and avoid being seen as a problem. It’s About Protection: The whole scene suggests Jesus is concerned about being seen as a threat, perhaps because he's challenging the established religious practices or beliefs of the time. Important Note: This verse isn’t meant to be taken literally. It’s a powerful metaphor for a person trying to avoid being noticed or recognized. It’s a classic example of Jesus using language that evokes a strong, symbolic meaning. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the story from Mark 5? Discuss what this verse might symbolize in a broader theological context (like faith vs. doubt)?