### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Bēthphagḗ**, represented by `{{G967}}`, refers to a place in Palestine known as **Bethphage**. Derived from Chaldee, its name means **fig-house**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, specifically marking a key location in Jesus's journey.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G967}}` is consistently identified as the place Jesus `{{G2424}}` and his disciples `{{G3101}}` reached as they **drew nigh** `{{G1448}}` to Jerusalem `{{G2414}}` before His triumphal entry. It is from this location, situated at the Mount of Olives `{{G1636}}`, that Jesus **sent** `{{G649}}` two disciples to procure the colt for his ride into the city [[Matthew 21:1]]. The Gospels of Mark and Luke present it alongside the village of Bethany, further clarifying its location on the approach to Jerusalem ([[Mark 11:1]], [[Luke 19:29]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help establish the context and location of Bethphage:
* `{{G963}}` **Bēthanía** (date-house): A village named **Bethany**, mentioned in conjunction with Bethphage as a point on the journey toward Jerusalem at the Mount of Olives [[Luke 19:29]].
* `{{G2419}}` **Hierousalḗm** (Hierusalem): As the capitol of Palestine, **Jerusalem** is the destination that Jesus and his disciples are approaching when they arrive at Bethphage [[Mark 11:1]].
* `{{G3735}}` **óros** (a mountain): This word is used to identify the specific landmark near Bethphage, the **mount** of Olives, a place of great significance in Jesus's ministry [[Matthew 21:1]].
* `{{G1448}}` **engízō** (to make near, i.e. (reflexively) approach): This verb describes the action of Jesus and his disciples as they **approach** Bethphage, signaling the beginning of the final events in Jerusalem [[Mark 11:1]].
### Theological Significance
The geographical and narrative significance of `{{G967}}` is tied to its role in the Triumphal Entry.
* **Staging Point for the King:** Bethphage serves as the specific place from which Jesus initiates his messianic entrance into Jerusalem, fulfilling prophecy by sending his disciples for the colt [[Matthew 21:1]].
* **Proximity to Prophetic Ground:** Its location "at the mount called the mount of Olives" [[Luke 19:29]] places these events on sacred ground associated with God's presence and future redemptive acts.
* **Demonstration of Authority:** From Bethphage, Jesus **sent** `{{G649}}` two disciples on a mission, demonstrating his divine authority and foreknowledge as he orchestrated the events to come [[Luke 19:29]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G967}}` is more than a simple place name on a map. While appearing only three times, **Bēthphagḗ** is the critical starting point for Jesus's final, public presentation to Jerusalem as its king. Its identity as "fig-house" is secondary to its narrative function as the location from which Jesus sets in motion the events of the Passion Week.
TRV