Book of Mark - Chapter 11 - Verse 9
Meaning
When the people cried out "Hosanna; Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord," as Jesus entered Jerusalem on a donkey, they were acknowledging him as the long-awaited Messiah. The word "Hosanna" is a Hebrew expression meaning "save, we pray" or "save now," and it is a shout of praise and adoration. By proclaiming Jesus as the one who comes in the name of the Lord, the people were recognizing him as the promised Savior. This verse reflects the belief of the crowd that Jesus was the anointed one sent by God to rescue and redeem them. His entry into Jerusalem on a donkey fulfilled the prophecy in Zechariah 9:9, further reinforcing the idea that Jesus was the chosen one of God. The crowd's enthusiastic response also foreshadows the events that would unfold during Jesus' final week, leading to his crucifixion and resurrection. Overall, this verse captures the excitement and anticipation of the people as they welcomed Jesus as the Messiah, the one sent by God to bring salvation to humanity.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of the verse 'And they that went before, and they that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna; Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord:' emphasizes the acknowledgment of Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah. The term "Hosanna" is a Hebrew expression that means "save, we pray" or "save, we beseech you." The people shouting "Hosanna" were proclaiming Jesus as the one who comes in the name of the Lord, thus acknowledging him as the Savior. This verse reflects the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, particularly Psalm 118:26 which speaks of the one who comes in the name of the Lord being blessed. The crowds recognizing Jesus as the promised Messiah signify a pivotal moment in Jesus' ministry, leading up to his triumphant entry into Jerusalem before his crucifixion and resurrection.