Mark 11:1

¶ And when they came nigh to Jerusalem, unto Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount of Olives, he sendeth forth two of his disciples,

And {G2532} when {G3753} they came nigh {G1448} to {G1519} Jerusalem {G2419}, unto {G1519} Bethphage {G967} and {G2532} Bethany {G963}, at {G4314} the mount {G3735} of Olives {G1636}, he sendeth forth {G649} two {G1417} of his {G846} disciples {G3101},

As they were approaching Yerushalayim, near Beit-Pagei and Beit-Anyah, by the Mount of Olives, Yeshua sent two of his talmidim

As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent out two of His disciples

And when they draw nigh unto Jerusalem, unto Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount of Olives, he sendeth two of his disciples,

Commentary

Mark 11:1 opens the narrative of Jesus' final week before His crucifixion, often referred to as Passion Week. This verse sets the geographical and chronological stage for the momentous events that follow, beginning with the Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem.

Historical and Cultural Context

This verse places Jesus and His disciples just outside Jerusalem, specifically nearing two small villages: Bethphage and Bethany. These villages were situated on the eastern slope of the Mount of Olives, a significant landmark overlooking Jerusalem. Bethany was notably the home of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, whom Jesus had recently raised from the dead (John 11:1). The proximity to Jerusalem indicates the imminence of the Passover festival, a time when the city would be bustling with pilgrims. Jesus' approach from the Mount of Olives held symbolic weight, as this mountain is mentioned in Old Testament prophecy (Zechariah 14:4) and later as the site of His ascension (Acts 1:12).

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Purpose and Timing: The phrase "when they came nigh to Jerusalem" highlights the deliberate and purposeful nature of Jesus' journey. His arrival was not accidental but part of God's preordained plan for salvation.
  • Setting the Stage for the Passion: This verse marks the very beginning of the climactic events leading to Jesus' arrest, trial, crucifixion, and resurrection. It introduces the period known as Passion Week, the most crucial week in Christian theology.
  • Jesus' Foreknowledge and Authority: Although not explicitly detailed in this verse, the subsequent verses (Mark 11:2-3) show Jesus sending two disciples with precise instructions, demonstrating His divine foreknowledge and authority over circumstances. This echoes His consistent awareness of His mission and destiny.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek phrase for "Mount of Olives" is Oros Elaion (ὄρος ἐλαιῶν), literally "mountain of olives." The names of the villages also carry meaning: Bethany means "House of Dates" or "House of Affliction," and Bethphage means "House of Figs." These geographical details ground the narrative in specific, verifiable locations, emphasizing the historical reality of these events.

Practical Application

Mark 11:1 reminds us that God's plans unfold with perfect timing and precision. Just as Jesus deliberately approached Jerusalem to fulfill His redemptive purpose, believers are called to trust in God's sovereign timing and leading in their own lives. This verse serves as a powerful introduction to the narrative of ultimate sacrifice and victory, inviting readers to reflect on the profound significance of Jesus' journey to the cross and His ultimate triumph.

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Cross-References

  • Matthew 21:1 (7 votes)

    ¶ And when they drew nigh unto Jerusalem, and were come to Bethphage, unto the mount of Olives, then sent Jesus two disciples,

  • Matthew 21:11 (7 votes)

    And the multitude said, This is Jesus the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee.

  • John 12:14 (6 votes)

    And Jesus, when he had found a young ass, sat thereon; as it is written,

  • John 12:19 (6 votes)

    The Pharisees therefore said among themselves, Perceive ye how ye prevail nothing? behold, the world is gone after him.

  • Luke 19:29 (6 votes)

    And it came to pass, when he was come nigh to Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount called [the mount] of Olives, he sent two of his disciples,

  • Luke 19:40 (6 votes)

    And he answered and said unto them, I tell you that, if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out.

  • John 8:1 (4 votes)

    ¶ Jesus went unto the mount of Olives.