Definition: And looking up to heaven, he sighed, and saith unto him, Ephphatha, that is, Be opened.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Mark 7:34. It's a really important one because it speaks about Jesus’s compassion for people who were clearly afflicted with a sickness or condition. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus is looking up to Heaven and feeling sadness. He’s saying something to this person (Ephphatha) who is visibly sick – likely due to a physical ailment, maybe even a spiritual one. He's essentially offering comfort and understanding. Let’s unpack it further: “Looking up to heaven” : This shows that Jesus is feeling overwhelmed by the situation. He’s not just reacting; he’s experiencing a deep sense of sadness or concern. “Sighed” : This suggests a quiet, internal emotion – a feeling of pain or worry. It's not a loud, dramatic sigh like someone might make in anger. “Sayeth unto him, Ephphatha…” : This is the key part! Jesus is directly addressing this person. He’s giving instruction or advice. “Be opened” : This is the crucial phrase. It means to be freed from their condition , to be restored . It's a metaphor for being healed, straightened out, and having their suffering alleviated. Overall Meaning: Jesus is showing empathy and concern for someone who is struggling with a physical or spiritual ailment. He’s offering comfort and suggesting that there’s hope for healing and release from their pain. It’s a gentle but powerful message of compassion and forgiveness. Why it's significant: This verse is often interpreted as a foundational teaching about Jesus’s love and concern for humanity, especially those who are suffering. It’s a reminder that God cares deeply about us, even when we don’t feel it. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these points in more detail? Connect this verse to another passage from the Bible? Provide a little context about the time and place this verse was spoken?