While the term primarily denotes the physical phenomenon of a continuous discharge, the word also carries the connotation of something that isolates or debilitates. In Scripture the emphasis falls on a chronic hemorrhage that renders a person ceremonially unclean and socially marginalized according to Leviticus 15:25-27.

Occurrences in the Gospels

Mark 5:25; Luke 8:43; Luke 8:44. All three references belong to the same event—the healing of the woman whose twelve-year hemorrhage ended the moment she touched Jesus’ garment.

Narrative Setting and Progression

1. Chronic affliction (twelve years)
2. Exhaustion of every human remedy (physicians and finances)
3. Bold, hopeful approach to Jesus through a crowd
4. Instantaneous healing upon contact
5. Public acknowledgment that affirms her faith and restores her status (Mark 5:34)

Ceremonial and Social Implications

Under Mosaic Law, prolonged bleeding produced continual ritual impurity, restricting worship at the temple, contact with family, and normal societal interaction. Thus the healing is not merely medical; it re-opens access to fellowship with God and community.

Christological Significance

Jesus’ power extends to conditions viewed as untouchable. By permitting the woman’s touch and openly declaring her clean, He demonstrates authority over both physical illness and ritual impurity, prefiguring the cleansing power of the cross.

Faith as the Instrument of Reception

“Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be free of your affliction.” (Mark 5:34). The woman’s action embodies faith that overcomes shame, fear, and cultural barriers, illustrating how faith appropriates the salvation and wholeness Jesus offers.

Intertextual Resonance

• Leviticus 15:25-27 frames the legal background.
• Isaiah 53:4 connects physical healing to the Messianic work of the Servant.
• Malachi 4:2 speaks of “healing in His wings,” echoed when the woman touches the “fringe” (kraspedon) of the cloak (Luke 8:44).

Historical and Medical Notes

Ancient physicians treated persistent hemorrhages with costly remedies—herbs, mineral tonics, and superstitious amulets—seldom with success. The Gospel writers contrast this futile expenditure with the freely given, immediate cure from Jesus.

Ministerial Applications

• Compassionate Outreach: Chronic sufferers and socially isolated individuals need intentional pastoral attention mirroring Jesus’ response.
• Holistic Healing: Ministry should aim at both physical aid and restoration to worshipping community.
• Encouraging Bold Faith: Teach that approaching Christ in faith, even when social norms discourage it, brings life-changing grace.

Summary

The threefold use of Strong’s 4511 paints a portrait of unrelieved bleeding that meets its divine remedy in Jesus Christ. The episodes reveal His willingness to cleanse the defiled, affirm the marginalized, and respond to humble, persevering faith.