Matthew 8:31. So the demons besought him. Mark and Luke insert here a question and answer respecting the name of the demons, which brings their number into view. The former speaks of their begging not to be sent ‘out of the country,' the latter, ‘into the deep.' The latter phrase suggests that ‘before the time' (Matthew 8:29), refers to a time of banishment from earth ‘to their own place.'

If thou cast us out. They recognized His power, yet clung to the present habitation.

Send us away. This is the correct reading, agreeing with the words used by Mark. The request was malicious; that they might remain on earth, and continue their work of opposition.

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Old Testament