Meaning of Matthew 21:9

This verse, spoken by the crowds accompanying Jesus during his triumphal entry into Jerusalem, marks a pivotal moment of public acclamation and Messianic expectation. The shouts of "Hosanna" are not merely a cheer but a deeply rooted Hebrew plea for salvation and deliverance, directly invoking Psalm 118:25-26. By calling Jesus the "Son of David," the crowds are explicitly identifying him with the Davidic lineage, the promised royal line from which the Messiah was expected to come. The phrase "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord" further reinforces this Messianic claim, as it is a direct quotation from Psalm 118:26, a psalm often associated with Messianic prophecy and the arrival of God's chosen king. The concluding "Hosanna in the highest heaven" elevates the plea, suggesting a recognition of Jesus' divine authority and a prayer for God's ultimate intervention and salvation.

Context and Background

The scene described in Matthew 21:9 is the Triumphal Entry, a deliberate act by Jesus to fulfill Old Testament prophecy concerning the Messiah's arrival in Jerusalem. He entered the city riding on a donkey, a symbol of peace and kingship distinct from a warhorse. This public demonstration was a stark contrast to his often-private ministry and was intended to provoke a response from both the populace and the religious authorities. The crowds, having witnessed Jesus' miracles and heard his teachings, were filled with anticipation for a political and spiritual deliverer who would overthrow Roman oppression and re-establish the kingdom of Israel.

Key Themes and Messages

• Messianic Expectation: The verse highlights the fervent hope of the Jewish people for a Messiah, specifically one descended from King David, who would bring salvation and restore Israel.
• Divine Authority: The acclamation "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord" points to Jesus' divine commission and authority, recognizing him as God's appointed representative.
• Salvation and Deliverance: "Hosanna" (from the Hebrew hoshia na, meaning "save us, please") is a plea for immediate help and salvation, reflecting the people's desire for liberation from their current circumstances.
• Public Acclaim: This event represents a moment of widespread public recognition of Jesus' identity and mission, albeit a recognition that would soon be challenged and misunderstood.

Spiritual Significance and Application

The spiritual significance lies in the recognition of Jesus as the promised Savior. For believers, this event underscores Jesus' identity as the Son of God and the King of Israel, whose reign is not solely political but spiritual. It calls us to acknowledge and worship Jesus as our Lord and King, and to actively participate in proclaiming his reign. The plea for salvation, "Hosanna," remains relevant as an ongoing prayer for God's intervention in our lives and in the world, and for the ultimate fulfillment of His kingdom.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This event is a crucial fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, particularly those found in Zechariah 9:9 ("Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey."). It bridges the Old Testament's anticipation of a Messiah with the New Testament's unfolding of Jesus' identity and mission. The crowds' acclamation, while ultimately insufficient for many to truly embrace Jesus, sets the stage for his Passion, crucifixion, and resurrection, which are the ultimate acts of salvation and deliverance.

Analogies

• A Royal Welcome: Imagine a nation eagerly awaiting the return of a beloved and victorious king, lining the streets with cheers and banners, showering him with praise and acknowledging his rightful place on the throne.
• A Lifeline: "Hosanna" is like a drowning person desperately crying out for a rescuer to throw them a lifeline. The crowds are crying out to Jesus for salvation from their perceived troubles.
• A Grand Opening: It's akin to a grand opening celebration for a long-awaited and transformative business, where everyone is excited about the new possibilities it brings and the positive impact it will have.

Relation to Other Verses

• Zechariah 9:9: As mentioned, this verse directly fulfills this prophecy, underscoring Jesus' humble yet kingly arrival.
• Psalm 118:25-26: The shouts are a direct quotation from this psalm, which is understood as Messianic. The psalm speaks of God's salvation and the blessedness of the one who comes in His name.
• Luke 19:37-40: Luke's account of the Triumphal Entry also captures the crowd's praise, with Jesus himself affirming that if the people were silent, the very stones would cry out, emphasizing the inevitability of his Messianic identity being revealed.
• John 12:12-15: John's Gospel also records the event, highlighting the disciples' understanding of the fulfillment of scripture.