Definition: And he left them, and went out of the city into Bethany; and he lodged there.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 21:17. It's a really important one and it has some interesting implications! Here's what it means in simple terms: Jesus is leaving the city of Jerusalem and going to a place called Bethany. He then stays there for a while. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And he left them…” : This tells us Jesus wasn't just walking away . He was deliberately choosing to leave his followers behind. “…and went out of the city into Bethany…” : Bethany is a small town, likely near the Sea of Galilee in the land of Israel. It’s a place where Jesus often preached and spent time with his disciples. “And he lodged there.” : This is the key part! He settled down in this Bethany location – it means he established a home there. What does this verse tell us about Jesus? This is interpreted as a few different things, but here are some common understandings: He’s comforting and providing for his followers: Leaving them behind suggests he's taking care of them, offering them safety and support. He's preparing for something bigger: It could be that Jesus is preparing to return to earth or that he’s establishing a new community with his disciples. It’s a temporary move: The verse implies it’s not a permanent stay. Jesus was leaving, but he wasn’t completely abandoning them. Important Note: The exact meaning of this passage has been debated for centuries. Different interpretations exist, but the core message is that Jesus is showing compassion and providing for his people. --- Do you want me to explain any of these points in more detail? Or would you like me to explore a specific aspect of this verse (like its symbolism or historical context)?