And, behold, a woman, which was diseased with an issue of blood twelve years, came behind him, and touched the hem of his garment:
Ver. 20. And, behold, a woman, &c.] This history and occurrence comes in here by a parenthesis, and by a sweet providence, for the exercise and increase of Jairus's faith and patience. Jairus could have wished her far enough at that time, because she hindered our Saviour from making haste to his dying daughter. But she shall be dead outright, the woman cured, and he thereby confirmed, ere his desire shall be accomplished; that God in all may be glorified.
Which was diseased, &c.] And had lavished money out of the bag for help, but had had none, Isaiah 46:6. Nay, she had suffered many things of the physicians, who had well nigh officiously killed her, and had utterly exhausted her. a This made Chaucer take for his motto, Farewell, doctor; and the Emperor Adrian cry out upon his deathbed, Many physicians have killed the king, πολλοι ιατροι κατεκτειναν τον βασιλεα. Dio.
Came behind him] Either as abashed of her blushful disease, or because she could not come before him for the crowd, &c.
a Medici persaepe aegros officiose occidunt.