The account of a woman with a prolonged discharge is a significant narrative found in the Synoptic Gospels, specifically in the books of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. This account highlights themes of faith, healing, and the compassionate nature of Jesus' ministry.

Biblical Account:

The account is recounted in Matthew 9:20-22, Mark 5:25-34, and Luke 8:43-48. The Berean Standard Bible provides a clear translation of these passages. In Mark 5:25-34 , the narrative is detailed as follows:

"A woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years. She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse. When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind Him in the crowd and touched His cloak, because she thought, 'If I just touch His clothes, I will be healed.' Immediately her bleeding stopped, and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering.

At once Jesus realized that power had gone out from Him. He turned around in the crowd and asked, 'Who touched My clothes?'

'You see the people crowding against You,' His disciples answered, 'and yet You can ask, "Who touched Me?"'

But Jesus kept looking around to see who had done it. Then the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came and fell at His feet and, trembling with fear, told Him the whole truth.

He said to her, 'Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.'"

Cultural and Religious Context:

In the Jewish context of the time, a woman with a discharge of blood would have been considered ceremonially unclean according to Levitical law (Leviticus 15:25-27). This condition would have isolated her socially and religiously, as she would have been unable to participate in communal worship and would have been avoided by others to prevent ritual impurity.

Theological Significance:

The narrative underscores the power of faith and the willingness of Jesus to transcend cultural and religious barriers to bring healing. The woman's act of touching Jesus' garment, despite her unclean status, demonstrates her desperation and belief in His power to heal. Jesus' response, acknowledging her faith and addressing her as "Daughter," signifies acceptance and restoration not only of her health but also of her place in the community.

Symbolism and Interpretation:

The woman's healing is symbolic of the broader mission of Jesus to restore and redeem those marginalized by society. Her account is often interpreted as an illustration of the transformative power of faith and the inclusive nature of Jesus' ministry. The narrative also highlights the personal nature of Jesus' miracles, as He takes the time to identify and speak directly to the woman, affirming her faith and granting her peace.

Related Themes and Topics:

· Faith and Healing: The woman's belief in Jesus' ability to heal her is a central theme, emphasizing the importance of faith in the Christian tradition.
· Jesus' Compassion: The account reflects Jesus' compassion and willingness to engage with those considered unclean or marginalized.
· Ritual Purity: The account provides insight into the Jewish laws of purity and the social implications for those deemed unclean.
· Miracles of Jesus: This healing is one of many miracles performed by Jesus, showcasing His divine authority and power.

Cross-References:

· Leviticus 15:25-27: Laws concerning ritual purity and discharge.
· Matthew 9:20-22: Parallel account of the healing.
· Luke 8:43-48: Parallel account of the healing.

This narrative continues to be a source of inspiration and reflection for many, illustrating the profound impact of faith and the boundless compassion of Jesus.