The symbolism of the donkey may refer to the Eastern tradition that it is an animal of peace, versus the horse, which is the animal of war. A king came riding upon a horse when he was bent on war and rode upon a donkey when he wanted to point out he was coming in peace. Jesus' entry to Jerusalem would thus symbolize his entry as the Prince of Peace, not as a war-waging king.
The palm branch was a symbol of triumph and victory in the Greco-Roman culture of the Roman Empire, and became the most common attribute of the goddess Nike or Victory. For contemporary Roman observers, the procession would have evoked the Roman triumph, when the triumphator lay down his arms and wore the toga, the civilian garment of peace that might be ornamented with emblems of the palm. The palm branch later became a symbol of Christian martyrs and their spiritual victory or triumph over death.
In Revelation 7:9, the white-clad multitude stand before the throne and Lamb holding palm branches.
My prayer for you today is that you have a personal relationship with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
A good post Linda, reminding us of what this day means. This Easter season, to me, is the most important of the Christian holidays of celebration, even more so than Christmas.
ReplyDeleteHope you have a great day.
Yes, a good post, Linda. Our Priest reminded us that this is the Holiest week of the Christian year. It is good to be reminded of all it stands for. Wishing you a blessed week ahead!
ReplyDeleteA wonderful post reminding us all of the importance of this day.
ReplyDeleteGood reminders, thank you Linda.
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