8:2 And certain women. That these women should attend the footsteps of Christ was opposed to the custom of Palestine. The admixture of the sexes was not common. The rabbis held that the law should not be taught to women.
Mary called Magdalene. That is, of Magdala, a village near the Sea of Galilee. This is the first mention of her, and we know nothing more of her preceding history. We know that after this she was one of the most devoted friends of Christ.
Seven devils. See PNT Mt 8:29, on demoniac possession.
8:2 Mary Magdalene - Or Mary of Magdala, a town in Galilee: probably the person mentioned in the last chapter .
8:1-3 We are here told what Christ made the constant business of his life, it was teaching the gospel. Tidings of the kingdom of God are glad tidings, and what Christ came to bring. Certain women attended upon him who ministered to him of their substance. It showed the mean condition to which the Saviour humbled himself, that he needed their kindness, and his great humility, that he accepted it. Though rich, yet for our sakes he became poor.
