The Gerasene (The Demoniac of Gadara)

Technical Profile

• Name Meaning: Anonymous; no personal name is given in Greek, highlighting the episode’s focus on Jesus’ deliverance rather than identity.
• Period/Era: Second Temple Period (Roman Imperial Context)
• Main References: Mark 5:1–20; Luke 8:26–39; Matthew 8:28–34
• Key Connections: Jesus; the demons called “Legion”; local Gerasene/Gadarene residents; the Decapolis region

Who was The Gerasene (The Demoniac of Gadara)?

An unnamed man from the region of the Gerasenes/Gadarenes is described as violently afflicted by many demons.
He lived among tombs and was socially isolated, unable to be restrained by chains.
After being delivered by Jesus, he was restored to a sound mind and rejoined human society.
He became a witness in his region to what God had done for him.

Key Events & Achievements

• Event 1: Encounters Jesus in the Gerasene region and is identified by the demons as possessed by “Legion” (Mark 5:1–10).
• Event 2: The demons are sent into a herd of pigs, which rush into the sea, prompting fear and public reaction (Mark 5:11–17).
• Event 3: Commissioned to remain and report in the Decapolis “how much the Lord has done,” he proclaims the news widely (Mark 5:18–20).

Life Lesson & Legacy

Jesus’ deliverance leads naturally to public witness within one’s own community and region.

Key Verse

"Go home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you." — Mark 5:19, ESV