Definition: Fear not, daughter of Sion: behold, thy King cometh, sitting on an assâs colt.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful and poignant passage from John 12:15. It's a really rich message about the coming of Jesus Christ. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is telling us that Jesus is coming soon to save humanity. It’s not just any future arrival; it’s a special, significant arrival. Let's unpack the parts: “John 12:15” : This is the verse itself – a specific part of a larger passage in the Gospel of John. “Fear not…” : This is crucial! It’s reassuring and calming. It means "don’t worry" or “be at ease.” “…daughter of Sion” : This refers to Jerusalem, which was a very important city in ancient Israel. Historically, Sion represented a time of hope and rebuilding – a place where the Jewish people were expected to return to their homeland. “Behold, thy King cometh…” : This is the main point - a king is coming! It’s not just any king; it’s Jesus Christ. “…sitting on an assâs colt” : This is where the imagery gets really powerful. “Assâs colt” – This is a Latin word meaning "young foal." It's a very evocative image. "Sitting…” : It suggests Jesus is in a vulnerable, peaceful position. "...a young foal" : This reinforces the idea of a gentle, unassuming ruler. So, what does it all mean? The combination of these elements paints a picture of: Jesus’s Coming: The verse emphasizes that Jesus is going to return – he's not just in the future; he’s coming soon . A Special Arrival: It’s not just any king arriving; it's a King who is peaceful, vulnerable, and perhaps even a little humble. A Time of Hope & Preparation: The phrase "daughter of Sion" speaks to the idea that Jesus is bringing hope and restoration for all people. It suggests a time when we should be preparing ourselves – spiritually and emotionally – for his return. In short, it’s a message about the ultimate triumph of good over evil, and the promise of a new era. Beyond the Literal: This verse has resonated with people throughout history because it speaks to the core of our hopes for the future. It's a reminder that even though things may seem difficult now, there is hope and a great change coming. --- Would you like me to: Explain this passage in more detail? Connect it to a specific biblical story or concept?