Book of John - Chapter 12 - Verse 15

One interpretation of the verse "Fear not, daughter of Zion: behold, thy King cometh, sitting on an ass's colt." is that it is a prophecy fulfilled when Jesus entered Jerusalem on a donkey before his crucifixion. This event, known as the Triumphal Entry, is described in all four Gospels of the New Testament. The donkey symbolizes humility and peace, as opposed to a horse which would have symbolized war. By riding on a donkey, Jesus was demonstrating his nature as the Prince of Peace, coming in humility rather than as a conquering warrior. The people of Jerusalem recognized this symbolism and welcomed Jesus with palm branches and shouts of "Hosanna," celebrating him as their long-awaited King. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of humility and peace in the life and ministry of Jesus.

In this verse from the Gospel of John, the phrase "fear not, daughter of Sion" serves as a reassurance to the people of Jerusalem that there is no need to be afraid. The mention of "daughter of Sion" is a reference to the city of Jerusalem, which is often personified as a woman in the Old Testament. This verse has strong messianic overtones, as it describes the coming of Jesus as a king who enters Jerusalem in a humble manner, sitting on a donkey's colt. This imagery is significant as it fulfills the prophecy in Zechariah 9:9, which foretold the Messiah's entry into Jerusalem in this specific manner. The use of a donkey instead of a horse symbolizes peace and humility, as opposed to a conquering king who would ride in on a horse. The theological interpretation here emphasizes Jesus' role as the long-awaited Messiah who comes not as a military ruler, but as the Prince of Peace.