The Miracle of the Swine (Mark 5:1–20)
Towering above the eastern shore of the Sea of Galilee, near the village of Neot Golan, are the dramatic cliffs traditionally linked to the Gadarene demoniac — a man tortured by spirits whom Jesus powerfully set free.
“Come out of this man, you impure spirit!” (Mark 5:8)
“…the herd, about two thousand in number, rushed down the steep bank into the lake and were drowned.” (Mark 5:13)
The terrain here fits the biblical description perfectly — steep cliffs plunging directly into the water. This dramatic setting helps visualize the miracle, not just as an event, but as a declaration: Jesus has authority over darkness, even in Gentile lands.
Nearby remains of ancient Gadara (modern Umm Qais in Jordan) reveal:
- A thriving Greco-Roman city
- A sophisticated water system and road network
- Early Christian basilicas from the Byzantine era
The miracle of the swine reminds us that no place is too far, and no soul too lost!
