There are many similarities between these stories which explains why Mark wanted us to read them together. Both females are facing a health crisis. One of them has suffered for twelve years; the other is dying at the age of twelve.1 According to Jewish purity laws, both are considered unclean. Irregular menstrual bleeding and a dead body defile those who would touch them, which makes their physical contact with Jesus even more striking. Jairus and the bleeding woman are united by their plea for healing and a desperation that brings them to their knees before Jesus.2
21 And when Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a great crowd gathered about him, and he was beside the sea.