Matthew 21:9

And the multitudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna to the Son of David: Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest.

Matthew 21:9 (KJV)

Context

Matthew 21:9 is part of the account of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, which occurred during the week leading up to His crucifixion and resurrection. This event took place on what is known as Palm Sunday, when Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey while crowds of people greeted Him with shouts of praise and adoration.

The verse describes two groups: the multitudes that went before Jesus and those that followed Him. Both groups cried out together, creating a public and enthusiastic acknowledgment of Jesus as He entered the city. Their shouts were not a quiet or private greeting but a loud, communal acclamation that drew attention to Jesus’ arrival.

Meaning

The word “Hosanna” is an exclamation of praise or adoration. It is derived from the Hebrew phrase “hoshiya na,” which means “save now” or “save, I pray.” By using this word, the multitudes were acknowledging Jesus as the Savior and expressing their hope and desire for salvation. The phrase “Hosanna in the highest” extends this plea for salvation to the highest heavens, indicating a cry for divine deliverance and exalting God as the highest authority.

When the multitudes declared Jesus as the “Son of David,” they were acknowledging Him as the rightful heir to the Davidic throne, the promised Messiah from the lineage of King David. This title emphasized Jesus’ royal and messianic identity, affirming the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies regarding the coming of the Messiah. The people’s shouts were not merely a general greeting but a specific recognition of Jesus as the Messiah and King.

The declaration “Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord” is a direct quotation from Psalm 118:26, a psalm of thanksgiving and deliverance. Originally, this verse referred to the arrival of a king or a pilgrim in Jerusalem. By using these words to welcome Jesus, the multitudes were recognizing His divine authority and giving Him honor and reverence.

Biblical connections

The event fulfills the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9, which describes a king coming to Jerusalem, humble and riding on a donkey. The crowd’s praise also echoes the liturgical use of “Hosanna” during Jewish festivals, when Psalms 115–118 were sung. This connection shows that the people were using familiar words of praise to hail Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah.

Application

Matthew 21:9 captures the enthusiastic praise and recognition given to Jesus as He entered Jerusalem. The multitudes acknowledged Him as the long-awaited Messiah, the Son of David, and the blessed one who comes in the name of the Lord. Their shouts of “Hosanna” expressed their desire for salvation and their acknowledgment of Jesus’ authority and divine nature. This verse highlights Jesus’ fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and emphasizes the importance of recognizing Him as the promised Savior.

Reflection

The crowd’s praise was sincere, yet their understanding of Jesus’ mission was incomplete; the full picture of His suffering and resurrection would only become clear after Easter. This reminds readers that praise can be genuine even when understanding is partial, and it invites reflection on how to grow in both worship and knowledge of Christ.