What does Matthew 20:29 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 20:29 narrates the event of Jesus leaving the city of Jericho and being followed by a large crowd.

From a literal standpoint, the verse describes the movement of Jesus and his disciples, together with a significant number of people, who were either curious onlookers, genuine followers, or those in need of healing and teaching.

On a deeper level, this passage sets the stage for the miracle that happens immediately after, where Jesus heals two blind men (as the story continues in Matthew 20:30-34).

The multitude's presence underscores the growing popularity and public interest in Jesus' ministry as He moves toward Jerusalem and ultimately, His crucifixion.

Historical Context

The city of Jericho was a significant and ancient city in the biblical narrative, often described as a key trade center and an oasis due to its location near the Jordan River.

During the time of Jesus, Jericho was part of the Roman province of Judea.

Departing from Jericho symbolically marked the beginning of Jesus's final journey to Jerusalem, where the events of the Passion Week would unfold.

The reference to a "great multitude" illustrates the considerable following Jesus had garnered by this time in His public ministry.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse may be interpreted in various ways:

• It can be seen as a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies where a messianic figure gathers a following and leads them to Jerusalem.
• The departing from Jericho could also symbolize the departure from the old (Jericho representing an old order) towards the new covenant Jesus would establish in Jerusalem.
• The large crowd can be seen as representative of the growing kingdom of God, indicating a collective movement toward salvation and redemption.

Different Christian denominations may emphasize various aspects of this movement; for example, Catholic theology might view the multitude as the universal Church following Jesus, while Protestant interpretations might focus on the personal decision to follow Christ.

Practical Applications

In a practical sense, the verse can inspire individuals to consider the importance of being part of a community that follows Jesus.

It can encourage believers to join together in common purpose and direction, modeling their lives on the teachings and example of Jesus, especially as He approaches the culmination of His earthly ministry.

Cross-References

• Matthew 19:1-2: "And it came to pass, that when Jesus had finished these sayings, he departed from Galilee, and came into the coasts of Judaea beyond Jordan; And great multitudes followed him; and he healed them there."
• Mark 10:46: "And they came to Jericho: and as he went out of Jericho with his disciples and a great number of people, blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, sat by the highway side begging."
• Luke 18:35-36: "And it came to pass, that as he was come nigh unto Jericho, a certain blind man sat by the way side begging: And hearing the multitude pass by, he asked what it meant."

Language Study

The key words in the original Greek of Matthew 20:29 are:

• "Departed" (Greek: ἐκπορεύομαι, ekporeuomai) can mean "to come out" or "to go forth," indicating the beginning of a journey.
• "Jericho" (Greek: Ἱεριχώ, Ierichō) is the name of the city that holds historical significance in the Jewish tradition.
• "Great" (Greek: πολύς, polys) denotes a large number or amount, emphasizing the size of the multitude.
• "Multitude" (Greek: ὄχλος, ochlos) refers to a crowd or throng of people, often used to describe those who followed Jesus during his itinerant ministry.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the literature of other ancient cultures, there are often stories of great leaders or heroes being followed by large crowds, a testament to their influence or divine favor.

In Greco-Roman mythology, characters like Orpheus were said to charm not just people but even animals and objects with their charisma or musical skills.

In Jewish tradition, significant figures like Moses also attracted and led a multitude, reflecting their roles as chosen leaders or prophets. This biblical event echoes those motifs, emphasizing Jesus' role as a divinely appointed leader and teacher.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, there isn't a direct link between the verse and any particular scientific concept.

However, the study of large groups or crowd dynamics falls within the field of sociology and psychology. Understanding why and how large numbers of people gather, move, and behave can provide insight into the motivations of the crowd that followed Jesus.

Commentaries

Commentators offer various insights on this verse:

• Some focus on the strategic location of Jericho as a place where large caravans would pass through, explaining the presence of a great multitude.
• Others note the significance of Jesus' journey toward Jerusalem, and how His movements always served a purpose in His ministry.
• Many emphasize the anticipation of the crowd, who may have been expecting Jesus to assert His kingship in Jerusalem, not understanding the nature of His mission and kingdom.

Commentaries would also explore the symbolism of departure and journey, the contrast between the old and the new, and the foreshadowing of the events of the Passion Week.

They might delve into the significance of the following miracle as an expression of Jesus' compassionate response to those who reached out to him in faith.