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Palm Sunday Palm Sunday marks the start of the most solemn week in the Christian year. It immediately precedes the events of Maundy Thursday (the Last Supper), Good Friday (the crucifixion of Jesus), and ultimately Easter Sunday (the resurrection). It commemorates the day Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey, fulfilling a prophecy from the Old Testament (Zechariah 9:9). The Gospels (Matthew 21:1-11, Mark 11:1-11, Luke 19:28-44, and John 12:12-19) describe how a large crowd greeted Jesus as he entered the city. People spread their cloaks and laid palm branches on the road in front of him, a traditional sign of honor and royalty. They shouted praises, including "Hosanna to the Son of David!" and "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" Palm branches were a common symbol of victory, triumph, and royalty in ancient times. Their use signified the people's recognition of Jesus as a kingly figure, the Messiah they had been waiting for. Jesus riding on a donkey, rather than a warhorse, symbolized humility and peace. It contrasted with the image of a conquering king arriving on a powerful steed. Jesus came as a servant-king, bringing a message of peace. |
