In pity translates the same Greek verb used in 9.36. As noted in the introduction to this section, this information is not included by either Mark or Luke. Good News Translation expresses this as a verb, “had pity on them.”

Touched their eyes is another unique feature of Matthew’s account; both Mark and Luke contain only Jesus’ statement that their faith had saved them, followed by the notation that they gained their sight.

Received their sight (Good News Translation “were able to see”) translates a verb which may also mean “able to see again.” It is impossible to be dogmatic, and translations are fairly well divided in their interpretation of the verb.

If it is at all possible to do so, the verb followed should be translated in such a way as to leave open the possible meaning “followed as disciples.”

Quoted with permission from Newman, Barclay M. and Stine, Philip C. A Handbook on the Gospel of Matthew. (UBS Handbook Series). New York: UBS, 1988. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .