Mark 5:17

Pray him. Rather, “entreat Him,” or “beseech Him.”

To depart. Their choice was made on the basis of material considerations. They chose to forgo any possible blessings such as had come to the healed demoniacs, lest they suffer further loss of property. In harmony with the counsel He Himself was soon to give to the Twelve as He sent them forth to preach and heal (see Matt. 10:14, 23), Jesus made no protest, but simply turned to leave. How many today follow the pathetic example of the people of Gadara, fearful that the Saviour’s presence will thwart their own plans.

Coasts. Gr. horia, “boundaries,” “borders,” or “limits.” As used here, horia does not refer to the shores of the lakes as may appear from the translation “coasts.”