I have compassion on the multitude, because they have now been with me three days, and have nothing to eat:
I have compassion on the multitude - an expression of that deep emotion in the Redeemer's heart which always preceded some remarkable interposition for relief. (See Matthew 14:14; Matthew 20:34; Mark 1:41; Luke 7:13; also Matthew 9:36, before the mission of the Twelve: compare Judges 2:18; Judges 10:16.)
Because they have now been with me, (in constant attendance), three days, and have nothing to eat: