King James Version

What Does Matthew 21:2 Mean?

Matthew 21:2 in the King James Version says “Saying unto them, Go into the village over against you, and straightway ye shall find an ass tied, and a colt with her: ... — study this verse from Matthew chapter 21 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

Saying unto them, Go into the village over against you, and straightway ye shall find an ass tied, and a colt with her: loose them, and bring them unto me.

Matthew 21:2 · KJV


Context

1

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

2

Saying unto them, Go into the village over against you, and straightway ye shall find an ass tied, and a colt with her: loose them, and bring them unto me.

3

And if any man say ought unto you, ye shall say, The Lord hath need of them; and straightway he will send them.

4

All this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying,


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Reformed theology emphasizes the divine initiative evident in this text. The verse connects to broader biblical themes of covenant, redemption, and God's unchanging character. Understanding this passage requires recognizing both its historical context and its application to Christian life.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

First-century Palestine was marked by religious fervor and political tension. The passage reflects interactions between Jesus and various groups: Pharisees, Sadducees, disciples, and crowds. Each audience received teaching tailored to their needs and spiritual condition.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse deepen your appreciation for Christ?
  2. What false beliefs or practices does this text correct?
  3. How should you share this truth with others?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 21 words
λέγων1 of 21

Saying

G3004

properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an

αὐτῆς·2 of 21

her

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

Πορεύθητε3 of 21

Go

G4198

to traverse, i.e., travel (literally or figuratively; especially to remove (figuratively, die), live, etc.)

εἰς4 of 21

into

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

τὴν5 of 21
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

κώμην6 of 21

the village

G2968

a hamlet (as if laid down)

τὴν7 of 21
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἀπέναντι8 of 21

over against

G561

from in front, i.e., opposite, before or against

ὑμῶν9 of 21

you

G5216

of (from or concerning) you

καὶ10 of 21

and

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

εὐθέως11 of 21

straightway

G2112

directly, i.e., at once or soon

εὑρήσετε12 of 21

ye shall find

G2147

to find (literally or figuratively)

ὄνον13 of 21

an ass

G3688

a donkey

δεδεμένην14 of 21

tied

G1210

to bind (in various applications, literally or figuratively)

καὶ15 of 21

and

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

πῶλον16 of 21

a colt

G4454

a "foal" or "filly", i.e., (specially), a young ass

μετ'17 of 21

with

G3326

properly, denoting accompaniment; "amid" (local or causal); modified variously according to the case (genitive association, or accusative succession)

αὐτῆς·18 of 21

her

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

λύσαντες19 of 21

loose

G3089

to "loosen" (literally or figuratively)

ἀγάγετέ20 of 21

them and bring

G71

properly, to lead; by implication, to bring, drive, (reflexively) go, (specially) pass (time), or (figuratively) induce

μοι21 of 21

them unto me

G3427

to me


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Matthew 21:2 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Matthew 21:2 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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