Matthew 21:1

Authorized King James Version

And when they drew nigh unto Jerusalem, and were come to Bethphage, unto the mount of Olives, then sent Jesus two disciples,

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
καὶ
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#2
ὅτε
when
at which (thing) too, i.e., when
#3
ἤγγισαν
they drew nigh
to make near, i.e., (reflexively) approach
#4
εἰς
to
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#5
Ἱεροσόλυμα
Jerusalem
hierosolyma (i.e., jerushalaim), the capitol of palestine
#6
καὶ
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#7
ἦλθον
were come
to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#8
εἰς
to
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#9
Βηθφαγὴ
Bethphage
fig-house; beth-phage, a place in palestine
#10
πρὸς
unto
a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,
#11
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
Ὄρος
the mount
a mountain (as lifting itself above the plain)
#13
τῶν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#14
Ἐλαιῶν
of Olives
an olive (the tree or the fruit)
#15
τότε
then
the when, i.e., at the time that (of the past or future, also in consecution)
#16
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#17
Ἰησοῦς
Jesus
jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites
#18
ἀπέστειλεν
sent
set apart, i.e., (by implication) to send out (properly, on a mission) literally or figuratively
#19
δύο
two
"two"
#20
μαθητὰς
disciples
a learner, i.e., pupil

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The first-century Palestinian Jewish culture under Roman occupation would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics

People

Study Resources