Christian Palm Sunday

QUESTION: Why is a donkey an important part of the Christian Palm Sunday?

ANSWER:

The Christian Palm Sunday emphasizes the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy. It is significant that the young donkey -- never before ridden -- made no resistance to Jesus upon its back. God’s divine sovereignty over the animal kingdom is displayed (Genesis 6:19–20, Psalm 8:6–7, Numbers 22:28).

Jesus riding a donkey and having His way paved with palm branches fulfills the prophecy spoken by the prophet Zechariah (Zechariah 9:9):

"Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion! Shout, Daughter of Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and having salvation, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey."

The prophet declares that Israel’s “king” is “coming.” Even five centuries before His birth, Jesus’ arrival was foreseen. Jesus, riding on a beast of burden, entered Jerusalem as the chosen Son of David to sit on David’s throne (1 King 1:33-44).

The supernatural and providential circumstances for the Messiah (“Anointed One”) were already well under way.