What is the meaning of Matthew 21:5? Say to the Daughter of Zion - “Daughter of Zion” is a tender way Scripture speaks of Jerusalem and, by extension, God’s covenant people. - Isaiah 62:11 echoes almost the same call: “Behold, the LORD has proclaimed to the ends of the earth: ‘Say to the Daughter of Zion, “See, your Savior comes!”’” - The instruction to “say” underscores that God initiates the message; His people are simply to announce what He is doing, much like the prophets in Zechariah 2:10 and Zephaniah 3:14 who call Zion to rejoice. - This opening line tells us that what follows is good news specifically aimed at God’s people—news meant to stir hope and expectancy. See, your King comes to you - The verse invites us to “see”—to look with eyes of faith at the arrival of a promised King. - 2 Samuel 7:12-16 shows the origin of Israel’s hope for a Davidic ruler whose kingdom would endure forever. - Psalm 24:7-10 calls for gates to “be lifted up” so the “King of Glory” may enter, prefiguring this moment. - Unlike earthly kings who demand subjects come to them, this King “comes to you,” fulfilling the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9 and demonstrating God’s initiative in salvation (Luke 19:10). Gentle - The reign of Jesus is marked by meekness, not military might. Matthew 11:29 shows the same heart: “I am gentle and humble in heart.” - This gentleness does not imply weakness; Isaiah 42:3 foretells that He will not break a bruised reed yet will bring forth justice. - His gentleness fulfills the upside-down values of the Kingdom announced in Matthew 5:5: “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.” Riding on a donkey - In the ancient Near East, a donkey signaled peaceful intentions, in contrast to a war horse (cf. 1 Kings 1:33 when Solomon rode a mule). - Judges 10:4 and 12:14 describe judges’ sons riding donkeys, highlighting a settled, non-aggressive leadership. - By choosing a donkey, Jesus declares He is indeed King yet comes as the Prince of Peace foretold in Isaiah 9:6. On a colt, the foal of a donkey - Mark 11:2 notes the colt had never been ridden—set apart for a sacred purpose, echoing Numbers 19:2 where unyoked animals are reserved for holy tasks. - The detail of both the mother donkey and her colt (Matthew 21:2-3) fulfills Zechariah 9:9 word-for-word, displaying God’s precise faithfulness. - This scene also mirrors Genesis 49:11, where Jacob prophesies that the ruler from Judah will tether his colt to the vine, linking Jesus to Judah’s royal lineage. summary Matthew 21:5 announces the long-promised King who comes personally, peaceably, and precisely as foretold. He approaches His people in gentleness, offering salvation rather than conquest. Every phrase roots Jesus in the prophetic promises, assuring us that God’s Word is exact and trustworthy. |
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