TRV
“Cleansing the Temple”· Matthew 21:12–17
Translation
King James Version
And he left them, and went out of the city into Bethany; and he lodged there.
Complete Jewish Bible
With that, he left them and went outside the city to Beit-Anyah, where he spent the night.
Berean Standard Bible
Then He left them and went out of the city to Bethany, where He spent the night.
American Standard Version
And he left them, and went forth out of the city to Bethany, and lodged there.
World English Bible Messianic
He left them, and went out of the city to Bethany, and lodged there.
Geneva Bible (1599)
So hee left them, and went out of the citie vnto Bethania, and lodged there.
Young's Literal Translation
And having left them, he went forth out of the city to Bethany, and did lodge there,
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Historical interpretation
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For Christ's disciples pray for nothing that they ought not, and as confiding in their Master they pray only for things great and heavenly.
Mystically; the Lord leaving the Chief Priests and Scribes withdrew without the earthly Jerusalem, which therefore fell. He came to Bethany to 'The house of obedience,' that is, to the Church, where when He had taken rest after the first erecting of the Church, He returned to the city which He had left a little while before, and returning, He was an hungred.
Herein also we find proof of the Lord's goodness; where He was minded to show forth an instance of the salvation procured by His means, He exerted the power of His might on the persons of men; by healing their present sicknesses, encouraging them to hope for the future, and to look for the healing of their soul. But now when He would exhibit a type of His judgments on the rebellious, He represents the future by the destruction of a tree; Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward for ever.
And that is compared to a fig tree, because the Apostles being the first believers out of Israel, like green figs shall in the glory, and the time, of their resurrection, be before the rest.
This was at once a type of the Gentiles, and no small comfort to the Apostles; for that they might not be perplexed, contriving how having no education for the purpose they should preach the Gospel, these children going before them did away that fear; for He who made these to sing His praises, shall give speech to those. This miracle also shows that Christ was the Framer of nature; seeing the children spoke things full of meaning, and agreeing with the Prophets, whereas the men uttered things meaningless, and full of frenzy.
He came not because He was an hungred, but for His disciples' sake; for because He ever did good and inflicted suffering on none, it behoved that He should set forth an example of His power of punishment; and this He would not exert upon man, but upon a plant.
This was only a supposition of the disciples that it was cursed because it had not fruit; for another Evangelist says that it was not yet the season. Why then was it cursed? For the disciples' sake, that they might learn that He had power to wither up those who crucified Him. And He worked this miracle in that which of all plants is the most juicy, that the greatness of the miracle might be more apparent. And when aught of this kind is done to brutes or vegetables, ask not whether the fig were with justice withered up, seeing it was not the season for its fruit; for to enquire thus were extreme madness, for in such creatures there can be neither fault nor punishment; but consider the miracle, and admire the Worker of it.
And that you may learn that this was done for their sakes, to the end, namely, that they should be stirred up to confidence, hear what is said further. Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, if ye shall have faith.
This that the Lord speaks of He ascribes to prayer and faith; whence He continues, And all things whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer believing ye shall receive.
(Verse 17) And leaving them, he went out outside the city to Bethany, and he stayed there. He left the unbelievers and, leaving the city of opposition, he went to Bethany, which means house of obedience, foreshadowing at that time the calling of the gentiles, and he stayed there because he could not remain in Israel. This also should be understood, that he was of such great poverty and was not flattered by anyone, that in the greatest city he found no guest, no dwelling, but he lived in a small field with Lazarus and his sisters: for their village is Bethany.
Hence it is to be understood that the Lord was in so great poverty, and so far from having courted any one, that He had found in all that city neither entertainer, nor abode, but He made His home in a little village, in the house of Lazarus and his sisters; for their village was Bethany; and it follows, and He lodged there.
When the shades of night were dispersed, and He was returning to the city, the Lord was an hungred, thus showing the reality of His human body.
The Lord about to suffer among the nations, and to take upon Him the offence of the Cross, sought to strengthen the minds of His disciples by a previous miracle; whence it follows, And seeing a fig-tree by the wayside, He came to it, and found nothing thereon, but leaves only.
For ever, (in sempiternum,) or, To the end of the world, (in sæculum,) for the Greek word αἰῶγ signifies both.
The Gentile dogs bark against us, affirming that the Apostles had not faith, because they were not able to remove mountains. To whom we answer, that many wonders were done by the Lord which are not written; and therefore we believe the Apostles to have done some not written; and that they were therefore not written, that the unbelieving might not have in them larger room for cavilling. For let us ask them, do they believe the miracles which are written, or do they not? And when they look incredulous, we can then establish that they who believe not the lesser would not have believed the greater.
The tree which He saw by the wayside we understand as the synagogue, which was nigh to the way inasmuch as it had the Law, but yet believed not on the way, that is, on Christ.
A bad man is better overcome by giving way to him than by replying to him; for wickedness is not instructed but stimulated by reproof. The Lord accordingly sought by withdrawing Himself to check those whom His words could not check; whence it is said, And He left them, and went out of the city into Bethany.
Seeking surely to lodge in the body where His spirit also reposed; for so it is with all holy men, they love to be not where sumptuous banquets are, but where holiness flourishes.
For had His hunger been as man for carnal food, He would not have hungred in the morning; he truly hungers in the morning who hungers after the salvation of others.
Also the fig in respect of the multitude of seeds under one skin is as it were an assembly of the faithful. But He finds nothing on it but leaves only, that is, pharisaical traditions, an outward show of the Law without the fruits of truth.
Or; Into the sea, that is, into the world where the waters are salt, i. e. the people are wicked.
That is, nigh to the world; for if a man lives nigh to the world, he cannot preserve in himself the fruit of righteousness.
But whenever we are not heard when we pray, it is either because we ask something adverse to the means of our salvation; or because the perverseness of those for whom we ask hinders its being granted to them; or because the performance of our request is put off to a future time, that our desires may wax stronger, and so may have more perfect capacity for the joys they seek after.
And he avenges his exclusion from the elect by more cruel treatment of the reprobate.
He departs from those who were unworthy and goes to Bethany, which means "house of obedience." He goes from those who are disobedient to those who are obedient to Him, and among them He lodges. For He says, "I will dwell and walk among them" (II Cor. 6:16).
(ap. Anselm.) For in permitting His flesh to suffer that which properly pertains to flesh, He fore-shews His passion. Mark the earnest zeal of the active labourer, Who is said to have gone early into the city to preach, and to gain some to His Father.
(ord.) The Creator does no wrong to the owner, but His creature at His will is converted to the profit of others.
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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Summary
Matthew 21:17 succinctly describes Jesus' nightly departure from the tumultuous environment of Jerusalem to the peaceful village of Bethany following a day of intense ministry and confrontation. This seemingly simple act underscores Jesus' profound humanity, his strategic withdrawal from opposition, and his reliance on a place of refuge and rest as he prepared for the escalating events of Passion Week. It highlights a recurring pattern of seeking solace away from the city's hostility, a vital practice for physical and spiritual replenishment.
Context
Literary Context
Matthew 21:17 concludes a pivotal day in Jesus' final week before his crucifixion, often referred to as Passion Week. The preceding verses detail a series of highly significant and emotionally charged events. Jesus had just made his triumphal entry into Jerusalem, publicly acclaimed as the Messiah by the crowds, fulfilling prophecy. Immediately after, he entered the temple and dramatically cleansed it, driving out merchants and money changers, declaring it a "house of prayer" that had become a "den of robbers." Following this powerful act, he healed the blind and lame within the temple courts, further demonstrating his divine authority. This provoked a direct confrontation with the chief priests and scribes, who questioned his authority and were indignant at the children's praises. Thus, by the time evening arrived, Jesus had endured a day of immense spiritual and physical exertion, marked by public acclamation, prophetic action, miraculous healing, and intense religious opposition. His departure from the city signifies a necessary retreat from this high-pressure environment.
Historical & Cultural Context
Bethany was a small village located approximately two miles (about 3 km) east of Jerusalem, on the eastern slope of the Mount of Olives. Its close proximity made it an ideal and practical overnight stop for pilgrims visiting Jerusalem, especially during crowded festivals like Passover, when lodging within the city walls would be scarce and expensive. For Jesus, Bethany was more than just a convenient lodging; it was a familiar and trusted place, famously the home of his dear friends Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, whom he had recently raised from the dead (see John 11:1-44). This personal connection imbued Bethany with significance as a sanctuary, a place where Jesus could find respite, companionship, and peace away from the political and religious hostility of Jerusalem. His daily pattern of leaving the city to lodge in Bethany during this final week was a strategic decision, allowing him to avoid night arrests and to prepare for the escalating conflict and his ultimate sacrifice.
Key Themes
This verse contributes to several overarching themes in Matthew and the broader Gospels. Firstly, it highlights Jesus' genuine humanity and need for rest. Despite his divine nature and the urgency of his mission, Jesus experienced physical fatigue and the necessity of retreat, underscoring his full identification with humanity, as seen throughout his ministry (e.g., Mark 4:38). Secondly, it illustrates strategic withdrawal in the face of opposition. Jesus' departure from Jerusalem was not a sign of weakness but a deliberate act to regroup and prepare for the intensifying conflict, demonstrating wisdom and divine timing in his movements. This pattern is consistent with other instances where Jesus withdrew from crowds or opposition to pray or rest (e.g., Luke 5:16). Finally, Bethany serves as a powerful symbol of sanctuary and spiritual refreshment. It represents the importance of having a place or community where one can find solace, support, and strength, a theme echoed in the Psalms where God is described as a refuge (Psalm 46:1).
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This verb, G2641, means "to leave down, i.e. behind; by implication, to abandon, have remaining." In this context, it signifies Jesus' intentional act of departing from Jerusalem and the people within it (the crowds, the religious authorities). It implies a deliberate separation from the day's events and interactions, leaving them behind as he sought a different environment.
Meaning "to issue (literally or figuratively); to come (forth, out), depart (out of), escape, get out, go (abroad, away, forth, out, thence), proceed (forth), spread abroad." This word emphasizes the physical movement of Jesus exiting the city, reinforcing the idea of a clear boundary being crossed—from the bustling, hostile city to the quiet, welcoming village.
A middle voice verb meaning "to pass the night (properly, in the open air); to abide, lodge." While it can imply lodging in the open, in this context, given Bethany's known hospitality, it likely refers to taking up temporary residence for the night, perhaps with friends like Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, or in a simple inn. It conveys the act of settling down for rest after a long day, emphasizing the need for physical recuperation.
Verse Breakdown
"And he left them,"
This opening clause indicates a decisive action by Jesus. "Them" refers to the crowds, the disciples, and especially the religious authorities and the general populace of Jerusalem with whom he had been interacting throughout the day. It signifies a necessary disengagement from the public sphere and its demands.
"and went out of the city into Bethany;"
This describes Jesus' physical movement. He departed from Jerusalem, the center of Jewish religious and political life, which had become a place of intense opposition for him. His destination, Bethany, contrasts sharply with Jerusalem, representing a shift from public confrontation to private retreat. The journey itself would have offered a transition period.
"and he lodged there."
This final clause states the purpose of his departure: to find rest and shelter for the night. "Lodged" implies settling down to pass the night, underscoring Jesus' physical needs and the practical reality of his human existence. It marks the end of the day's public ministry and the beginning of a period of personal replenishment.
Literary Devices
Matthew 21:17, though brief, employs several literary devices. Contrast is prominent, highlighting the stark difference between Jerusalem, a place of intense public ministry, confrontation, and hostility, and Bethany, a quiet village offering refuge and rest. This geographical contrast underscores the shift from external pressure to internal renewal. Symbolism is also at play; Bethany functions as a symbol of sanctuary and spiritual refreshment, a haven from the storm. It represents the necessity of retreat and the availability of peace amidst turmoil. Furthermore, the simple act of Jesus seeking rest can be seen as a form of Foreshadowing, subtly hinting at the immense physical and spiritual strain he would soon endure on the cross, emphasizing his full humanity and the need for preparation even for the Son of God.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Matthew 21:17, while a simple narrative detail, carries profound theological weight, underscoring the incarnate reality of Jesus—fully God, yet fully human. His need for rest and withdrawal is not a sign of weakness but a testament to his genuine humanity, experiencing the same physical limitations as those he came to save. This act of seeking refuge in Bethany highlights the divine wisdom in strategic retreat, demonstrating that even God in the flesh honored the rhythms of rest and preparation. It also subtly emphasizes the theme of divine timing and purpose, as Jesus' movements were always deliberate, leading him inexorably towards his ultimate sacrifice. This pattern of withdrawal for rest and prayer is a recurring motif in Jesus' ministry, providing a model for believers to seek spiritual and physical replenishment, especially in times of intense spiritual warfare or demanding service.
Reflection and Application
Matthew 21:17 offers timeless wisdom for believers navigating the demands of life and ministry. Jesus, our perfect example, modeled the essential practice of intentional rest and strategic withdrawal. In a world that often glorifies constant activity and burnout, this verse reminds us that prioritizing physical and spiritual replenishment is not a luxury but a necessity for sustained faithfulness and effectiveness. Just as Jesus sought refuge in Bethany after a day of intense spiritual battle and public engagement, we too must identify and cultivate our "Bethanys"—whether they be specific places, quiet moments of prayer, supportive relationships, or Sabbath practices—where we can disengage from the world's pressures, find solace, and be spiritually re-centered. This deliberate act of retreat allows us to process, to commune with God, and to prepare for the challenges that lie ahead, ensuring we are not running on empty but are continually filled by the Spirit for the work God has called us to do.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why did Jesus leave Jerusalem daily during Passion Week to lodge in Bethany?
Jesus' daily departure from Jerusalem to Bethany during Passion Week was a strategic and practical decision. Practically, Jerusalem would have been extremely crowded with Passover pilgrims, making lodging difficult and expensive. Bethany, a nearby village, offered a more accessible and quieter place to stay. Strategically, leaving the city each night allowed Jesus to avoid immediate arrest by the religious authorities, who were actively seeking to seize him but feared the crowds (Matthew 21:46). Furthermore, Bethany was home to his close friends, Mary, Martha, and Lazarus (John 11:1-2), providing him with a familiar and supportive environment for rest and spiritual replenishment away from the intense hostility and demands of the city.
What is the significance of Bethany in the Gospels?
Bethany holds significant spiritual and narrative importance in the Gospels. It was the home of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, a family with whom Jesus shared a deep friendship and from whom he received hospitality (Luke 10:38-42). Most notably, it was in Bethany that Jesus performed the miraculous resurrection of Lazarus, a powerful sign of his divine authority and a precursor to his own resurrection (John 11:1-44). During Passion Week, Bethany served as Jesus' regular retreat, a place of refuge and rest from the escalating tensions in Jerusalem. It was also near Bethany, on the Mount of Olives, that Jesus ascended into heaven after his resurrection (Luke 24:50-51). Thus, Bethany represents a place of friendship, miraculous power, and divine rest.
Does this verse imply Jesus was tired or weak?
Matthew 21:17 certainly implies Jesus experienced physical fatigue and the need for rest, underscoring his genuine humanity. Far from implying weakness, this highlights the profound truth of the Incarnation: Jesus was fully God and fully man. As a man, he experienced hunger, thirst, sorrow, and physical exhaustion, just like any human being (John 4:6; Hebrews 4:15). His need for rest after a demanding day of ministry in Jerusalem demonstrates his complete identification with human experience. This makes his ultimate sacrifice all the more profound, as he fully entered into the human condition, including its limitations, yet remained without sin.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Matthew 21:17, in its simple depiction of Jesus seeking rest, profoundly points to the Christ-centered reality of our salvation. This verse highlights Jesus' authentic humanity, a foundational truth of Christian theology, as he fully emptied himself to take on the form of a servant (Philippians 2:7). His physical need for rest after a day of intense spiritual warfare and confrontation in Jerusalem underscores his complete identification with humanity, making him a sympathetic High Priest who can truly empathize with our weaknesses and struggles (Hebrews 4:15). Furthermore, his strategic withdrawal to Bethany foreshadows his ultimate, deliberate withdrawal to the cross, a solitary and agonizing act of obedience that would secure our redemption. Just as Bethany provided temporary refuge, the cross became the ultimate place where Christ, by himself, bore the full weight of sin, accomplishing the work no other could. His lodging there, a place of peace, also subtly prefigures the "rest" he would ultimately provide for all who are weary and burdened (Matthew 11:28), a spiritual Sabbath rest found only in him, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29).