The 12-year-old girl in the Bible, famously brought back to life by Jesus, was the daughter of Jairus, a synagogue ruler. Her name is not explicitly mentioned in the biblical accounts, but her story is a powerful testament to Jesus's compassion and power over death.
The Story of Jairus' Daughter
Jairus approached Jesus with an urgent plea: his beloved 12-year-old daughter was gravely ill and on the verge of death. He desperately asked Jesus to come to his house and heal her. Jesus agreed and began to accompany Jairus.
On their journey to Jairus's home, a remarkable event occurred. A woman who had suffered from a debilitating illness for 12 years touched Jesus's cloak and was instantly healed. This momentary pause, however, brought devastating news for Jairus. Before they could reach his house, messengers arrived, informing him that his daughter had died, and there was no need to trouble Jesus further.
Despite the grim news and the funeral preparations already underway at Jairus's house, Jesus offered words of comfort and reassurance: "Do not be afraid; just believe." Upon arriving at the house, Jesus found a scene of mourning and weeping. He entered the room where the girl lay and, taking her by the hand, simply commanded her to "Arise!" Immediately, the little girl stood up, alive and well, demonstrating Jesus's divine authority over life and death.
Key Figures in the Narrative
The miraculous event involving Jairus's daughter highlights several key individuals:
| Figure | Role/Significance |
|---|---|
| Jairus | A synagogue ruler who humbly sought Jesus's help for his dying 12-year-old daughter. |
| Jairus' Daughter | The focus of the miracle; a 12-year-old girl resurrected by Jesus. |
| Jesus | The central figure, demonstrating His power to heal and raise the dead. |
| Woman with Issue | Healed by Jesus on the way to Jairus's house, having suffered for 12 years. |
A Miracle of Faith and Compassion
The resurrection of Jairus's daughter is a profound miracle found in the Gospels, emphasizing several key themes:
- Jesus's Compassion: He responded to the desperate plea of a father and showed deep empathy for the grieving family.
- Power Over Death: This event unequivocally demonstrates Jesus's unique authority over death itself, foreshadowing His own resurrection.
- Importance of Faith: Jesus's words to Jairus, "Do not be afraid; just believe," underscore the significance of faith even in the face of seemingly insurmountable circumstances.
- Significance of the Number 12: It's notable that both the girl's age and the duration of the woman's illness were 12 years, possibly symbolizing completion or the full extent of suffering and divine intervention.
This story serves as a powerful reminder of hope and divine intervention in times of despair.
