Triumphal Entry Path
City:
Jerusalem
State, Province, Region, or District:
Jerusalem (At-Tur) District
Country:
Israel
Overview
The triumphal entry is that of Jesus coming into Jerusalem on what we know as Palm Sunday, the Sunday before the crucifixion (John 12:1, 12). The story of the triumphal entry is one of the few incidents in the life of Jesus which appears in all four Gospel accounts (Matthew 21:1-17; Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:29-40; John 12:12-19). Putting the four accounts together, it becomes clear that the triumphal entry was a significant event, not only to the people of Jesus’ day, but to Christians throughout history. We celebrate Palm Sunday to remember that momentous occasion.
Alternate Names
Triumphal Entry; Palm Sunday; Entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem; the Entry into Jerusalem; the Procession of the Palms; the Sixth Sunday of Lent; Passion Sunday
Geography & Location
Jesus began his journey in Bethany, traveling up the Mount of Olives to the village of Bethphage. Here, He mounted a donkey colt to descend the western slope. Passing the site of the Dominus Flevit church, He descended into the Kidron Valley and ascended into Jerusalem, likely through the Eastern (Golden) Gate to reach the Temple Mount.
Biblical, Historical, & Archaeological Background Information
The triumphal entry is that of Jesus coming into Jerusalem on what we know as Palm Sunday, the Sunday before the crucifixion (John 12:1, 12). The story of the triumphal entry is one of the few incidents in the life of Jesus which appears in all four Gospel accounts (Matthew 21:1-17; Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:29-40; John 12:12-19). Putting the four accounts together, it becomes clear that the triumphal entry was a significant event, not only to the people of Jesus’ day, but to Christians throughout history. We celebrate Palm Sunday to remember that momentous occasion.
Architecture
Dominus Flevit (Latin, "the Lord wept") is a Roman Catholic church on the upper western slope of the Mount of Olives, opposite the walls of the Old City of Jerusalem in Israel. The church was designed and constructed between 1953 and 1955. It was built just off Palm Sunday Road, in commemoration of Luke 19:41-44, where Jesus wept over Jerusalem midway through His triumphal ride into the city on Palm Sunday.
Biblical & Historical References
Triumphal Entry in the Bible
Spiritual Lessons and Application
The story of the triumphal entry is one of contrasts, and those contrasts contain applications to believers. It is the story of the King who came as a lowly servant on a donkey, not a prancing steed, not in royal robes, but on the clothes of the poor and humble. Jesus Christ comes not to conquer by force as earthly kings but by love, grace, mercy, and His own sacrifice for His people. His is not a kingdom of armies and splendor but of lowliness and servanthood. He conquers not nations but hearts and minds. His message is one of peace with God, not of temporal peace. If Jesus has made a triumphal entry into our hearts, He reigns there in peace and love. As His followers, we exhibit those same qualities, and the world sees the true King living and reigning in triumph in us.
Etymology
Dominus Flevit - The Latin name Dominus Flevit translates directly to "the Lord wept."
Planning a Visit
Disclaimer: The information provided below may not be current. Travel details, entry requirements, and business operations are subject to frequent change due to holidays, seasonal fluctuations, maintenance, staffing levels, weather, and safety considerations. Always double-check with official sources before you go.
Places of Interest
Bethphage (beginning point of the Triumphal Entry)