Topical Encyclopedia The term "triumphal" in a biblical context often refers to the victorious and celebratory nature of certain events, particularly those that demonstrate God's power and the fulfillment of His promises. The most notable instance of a triumphal event in the Bible is the Triumphal Entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem, an event that is rich with prophetic significance and theological depth.Triumphal Entry of Jesus The Triumphal Entry is recorded in all four Gospels: Matthew 21:1-11, Mark 11:1-11, Luke 19:28-40, and John 12:12-19. This event marks the beginning of what is commonly referred to as Passion Week, the final week of Jesus' earthly ministry leading up to His crucifixion and resurrection. In the Berean Standard Bible, Matthew 21:9 describes the scene: "The crowds that went ahead of Him and those that followed were shouting: 'Hosanna to the Son of David!' 'Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!' 'Hosanna in the highest!'" This acclamation by the crowds is a direct fulfillment of the prophecy found in Zechariah 9:9, which foretold the coming of a king to Jerusalem, humble and riding on a donkey. The choice of a donkey, rather than a horse, is significant. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, a donkey symbolized peace, whereas a horse was associated with war. Jesus' entry on a donkey thus signifies His role as the Prince of Peace, coming to establish a kingdom not by force, but through sacrificial love and humility. Symbolism and Prophecy The Triumphal Entry is laden with symbolism and prophetic fulfillment. The spreading of cloaks and palm branches on the road (Matthew 21:8, John 12:13) is reminiscent of royal homage, acknowledging Jesus as the promised Messiah and King. The cries of "Hosanna," meaning "Save now," reflect the people's hope for deliverance, though many misunderstood the nature of the salvation Jesus was bringing. The event also serves as a stark contrast to the expectations of a political or military messiah. Jesus' entry into Jerusalem was not to overthrow Roman rule, but to conquer sin and death through His impending sacrifice on the cross. This triumphal moment foreshadows the ultimate victory of Christ over the powers of darkness, a theme echoed in Colossians 2:15, where Paul writes, "And having disarmed the powers and authorities, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross." Theological Implications The Triumphal Entry underscores the dual nature of Christ's mission: as the suffering servant and the conquering king. It invites believers to recognize Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and to embrace the paradox of His kingdom, where true victory is achieved through humility and self-giving love. In the broader biblical narrative, the concept of triumph is not limited to earthly victories but is ultimately realized in the eschatological hope of Christ's return. Revelation 19:11-16 depicts the final triumph of Jesus as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, riding on a white horse, symbolizing His ultimate authority and the consummation of His kingdom. The triumphal themes in Scripture call believers to live in the light of Christ's victory, participating in His mission of reconciliation and anticipating the day when His kingdom will be fully realized on earth as it is in heaven. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (a.) Of or pertaining to triumph; used in a triumph; indicating, or in honor of, a triumph or victory; as, a triumphal crown; a triumphal arch.Greek 2358. thriambeuo -- to triumph ... three-am-byoo'-o) Short Definition: I lead around, make a spectacle of Definition: (properly: I lead one as my prisoner in a triumphal procession, hence) I ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2358.htm - 7k Library The Triumphal Procession The Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem The Triumphal Feast for Christ's victory Over Sin, and Death, and ... Christ's Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem The Triumphal Entry. Ch. 19:29-48 The Triumphal Feast for Christ's victory Over Sin, and Death, and ... The Triumphal Entry. Jesus' Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem. From the Commencement of Christ's Public Ministry to the Triumphal ... Christ Triumphant Thesaurus Triumphal (2 Occurrences)... 1. (a.) Of or pertaining to triumph; used in a triumph; indicating, or in honor of, a triumph or victory; as, a triumphal crown; a triumphal arch. ... /t/triumphal.htm - 7k Triumph (52 Occurrences) Arrest (22 Occurrences) Trial (45 Occurrences) Kishon (6 Occurrences) Lazarus (19 Occurrences) Gerasa Gerasenes (3 Occurrences) Waves (43 Occurrences) Fig-tree (33 Occurrences) Resources What is the significance of the triumphal/triumphant entry? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is Palm Sunday? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that Christians are the aroma of Christ? | GotQuestions.org Triumphal: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Triumphal (2 Occurrences)2 Corinthians 2:14 Isaiah 60:11 Subtopics Related Terms |