Mark i 45 and the Meaning of λóγoς

Abstract

The word λόƴοϚ occurs in Mark twenty-three times, and it is the purpose of this note to show that, with one exception, it is used only in certain closely related senses, and that this fact materially affects the interpretation of Mark i 45. In the explanation of the parable of sower, it is intended for the Christian message, and in ii 2, iv 33, viii 32, it is the message of Jesus. The second meaning is 'an utterance' or in plural 'a body of utterances'. In the plural, viii 38, x 24, xiii 31, it refers to the utterances of Jesus as a whole and in meaning approaches to the first use. The only other places where λόƴοϚ means 'story' are Lk. vii 17 and Mt. xxviii 15. It might be asked how, generally assumed meaning of the sentence were the intended one, St.Mark could have avoided using λόƴοϚ.Keywords: λόƴοϚ; 'an utterance'; Christian message; Mark i 45; St.Mark