LUKE 8:26–39
JESUS HEALS THE GERASENE DEMONIAC
Text – Luke 8:26–39
26 Then they sailed to the territory of the Gerasenes, which is opposite Galilee.
27 When he came ashore, a man from the town who was possessed by demons met him. For a long time he had not worn clothes; he did not live in a house but among the tombs.
28 When he saw Jesus, he cried out and fell down before him; in a loud voice he shouted, “What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg you, do not torment me!”
29 For he had ordered the unclean spirit to come out of the man. It had taken hold of him many times, and he used to be bound with chains and shackles as a restraint, but he would break his bonds and be driven by the demon into deserted places.
30 Then Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” He replied, “Legion,” because many demons had entered him.
31 And they pleaded with him not to order them to depart to the abyss.
32 A herd of a large number of swine was feeding there on the hillside, and they pleaded with him to allow them to enter those swine; and he let them.
33 The demons came out of the man and entered the swine, and the herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and drowned.
34 When the swineherds saw what had happened, they ran away and reported the incident in the town and throughout the countryside.
35 People came out to see what had happened and, when they approached Jesus, they found the man from whom the demons had departed, sitting at his feet. He was clothed and in his right mind, and they were seized with fear.
36 Those who witnessed it told them how the possessed man had been saved.
37 The entire population of the Gerasene region asked Jesus to leave them because they were seized with great fear. So he got into a boat and returned.
38 The man from whom the demons had come out begged to remain with him, but he sent him away, saying,
39 “Return to your home and recount what God has done for you.” The man went off and proclaimed throughout the whole town what Jesus had done for him.
Historical and Jewish Context
The region of the Gerasenes was predominantly Gentile territory, reflected in the presence of pigs—animals considered unclean under Jewish law (Leviticus 11:7). Tombs were also considered ritually impure, making the possessed man’s condition doubly defiled in Jewish eyes. The name “Legion” was a Roman military term for a unit of thousands, suggesting the severity of the possession. Exorcism was not uncommon in Jewish tradition, but the power with which Jesus commands a multitude of demons, and their immediate obedience, is unprecedented. The fear of the local people likely stemmed from witnessing divine power beyond human control and the economic loss of the swine.
Catholic Theological Perspective
This passage reveals Jesus’ authority over the spiritual realm, including evil spirits (CCC 447, 550). The man’s transformation from chaos to peace illustrates the healing and restoring power of Christ. His sending the man to proclaim God’s work among Gentiles prefigures the Church’s mission to all nations (CCC 849). The demons’ request not to be sent to the abyss acknowledges Jesus’ divine authority over their final destiny (CCC 391–393, 2851). The townspeople’s rejection of Jesus reflects the human tendency to fear change more than to welcome salvation. True discipleship often means testifying to God’s work in our lives, even when rejected.
Parallels in Scripture
Mark 5:1–20 – Parallel account with added details
Matthew 8:28–34 – A shorter version of this event
Luke 4:33–36 – Jesus drives out a demon in a synagogue
Acts 16:16–18 – Paul expels a spirit from a slave girl
Ephesians 6:12 – Our struggle is against spiritual forces of evil
Key Terms
Gerasenes – A Gentile region east of the Sea of Galilee
Demoniac – A man tormented by evil spirits, physically and spiritually bound
Legion – A term implying a vast number of demons, and perhaps symbolic of Roman oppression
Swine – Symbol of impurity; their destruction shows evil’s self-destructive nature
Clothed and in his right mind – A sign of total healing and restoration by Christ
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This Gospel is used during Ordinary Time and in spiritual healing contexts. It is often referenced in deliverance ministry and catechesis on Christ’s victory over evil. It also illustrates the Church’s mission to the margins and to non-believers, reminding us that Christ’s power extends beyond the boundaries of the visible Church.
Conclusion
Jesus enters foreign, impure territory to save a man no one else could help. He restores dignity, identity, and purpose to a soul broken by evil. While others ask Him to leave, the healed man becomes a witness to grace. This miracle teaches that no one is beyond the reach of Christ’s mercy, and that witnessing to God’s power often begins right where we are—at home.
Reflection
Do I believe that Jesus has authority over all forms of evil in my life?
Am I willing to let Him enter the broken, dark, or hidden places of my soul?
Like the healed man, am I ready to proclaim what Jesus has done for me?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, You are the Deliverer and Healer of souls. Enter into the broken places of my life and cast out all that binds me. Restore me to peace, and give me the courage to share with others what You have done for me. May I never send You away in fear, but always welcome You with faith. Amen.