But the herdsmen also took to flight, lest they should perish with the swine, and spread the same fear amongst the inhabitants of the town.
Wherefore there follows: “And they that fed them, &c.”
The necessity of their loss, however, brought these men to the Saviour; for frequently when God makes men suffer loss in their possessions, He confers a benefit on their souls.
Wherefore it goes on: “And they came to Jesus, and see him that was tormented by the devil, &c.” that is, at the feet of Him from whom he had obtained health; a man, whom before, not even chains could bind, clothed and in his right mind, though he used to be continually naked; and they were amazed.
Wherefore it says, “And they were afraid.”
This miracle then they find out partly by sight, partly by words.
Wherefore there follows: “And they that saw it told them.”
Reproduced in full. Translation: Oxford 1841 (Newman), public domain (Public domain).