Overview:
The Triumphal Entry refers to the event recorded in the Gospels where Jesus Christ entered Jerusalem riding on a donkey, an event that marks the beginning of the Passion Week. This event is significant in Christian theology as it fulfills Old Testament prophecy and demonstrates Jesus' messianic identity. The Triumphal Entry is celebrated by Christians on Palm Sunday, the Sunday before Easter.

Biblical Accounts:
The Triumphal Entry is documented in all four Gospels: Matthew 21:1-11, Mark 11:1-11, Luke 19:28-40, and John 12:12-19. Each account provides unique details that contribute to the full picture of this pivotal moment in Jesus' ministry.

Prophetic Fulfillment:
The event fulfills the prophecy found in Zechariah 9:9, which states, "Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your King is coming to you; He is righteous and having salvation, lowly and riding on a donkey, a colt, the foal of a donkey." Jesus' choice to ride a donkey symbolizes peace, contrasting with a king who might ride a horse into battle.

The Procession:
As Jesus approached Jerusalem, He instructed His disciples to fetch a donkey and its colt from a nearby village, as recorded in Matthew 21:2-3 : "Go into the village ahead of you, and at once you will find a donkey tied there, with her colt beside her. Untie them and bring them to Me." The disciples obeyed, and Jesus mounted the donkey.

Crowd's Reaction:
The crowd's reaction was one of jubilation and reverence. They spread their cloaks on the road and cut branches from trees, laying them in His path. The people shouted, "Hosanna to the Son of David!" and "Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!" (Matthew 21:9). The term "Hosanna" is a plea for salvation, and the title "Son of David" acknowledges Jesus as the promised Messiah.

Significance of the Donkey:
The choice of a donkey is significant in several ways. It fulfills the prophecy of Zechariah, as mentioned earlier, and it also symbolizes humility and peace. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, a donkey was an animal of peace, as opposed to a horse, which was associated with war. Jesus' entry on a donkey thus signifies His role as the Prince of Peace.

Pharisees' Response:
The Pharisees, witnessing the adulation of the crowd, were troubled by the public's recognition of Jesus as the Messiah. In Luke 19:39-40 , some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Him, "Teacher, rebuke Your disciples!" Jesus replied, "I tell you, if they remain silent, the very stones will cry out."

Symbolism and Themes:
The Triumphal Entry is rich with symbolism and themes. It highlights Jesus' kingship, His fulfillment of messianic prophecies, and His mission of peace. The event also foreshadows the coming conflict with the religious authorities and the ultimate sacrifice Jesus would make for humanity's salvation.

Cultural and Historical Context:
The timing of the Triumphal Entry is significant, occurring during the Jewish festival of Passover, a time when Jerusalem was filled with pilgrims. The Passover commemorates the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt, and Jesus' entry into Jerusalem during this time underscores His role as the ultimate deliverer.

Theological Implications:
The Triumphal Entry is a declaration of Jesus' messianic identity and His divine authority. It sets the stage for the events of Holy Week, leading to His crucifixion and resurrection. The event invites believers to recognize Jesus as King and to reflect on the nature of His kingdom, which is characterized by humility, peace, and sacrificial love.