New Testament · Gospel

Matthew 21:17

The King Enters

Then He left them and went out of the city to Bethany, where He spent the night. Matthew 21:17 · Berean Standard Bible
What It Means

Matthew 21:17, in plain English

Jesus leaves the city and spends the night in Bethany.

Why it's here

After such an intense day, Jesus withdraws to a safe, quiet place with friends. Even He needed rest.

Who's speaking

The narrator describes Jesus pulling away from the intensity of Jerusalem.

Where it sits in the story

After overturning tables and healing the broken, Jesus goes to Bethany to rest. Tomorrow will bring more.

A Closer Look

The scholar's commentary

Jesus withdraws from the city to Bethany for the night — a practical and strategic retreat to the home of friends (likely Martha, Mary, and Lazarus per John's account).

Language and setting

Bethany was about two miles east of Jerusalem on the Mount of Olives; Jesus spent several nights there during Passion Week.

Voice

The narrator notes Jesus' withdrawal from Jerusalem at day's end.

Significance

After a day of prophetic action, Jesus retreats to the quiet of Bethany, preparing for the confrontations to come.

In context

Matthew 21:15–19

15But the chief priests and scribes were indignant when they saw the wonders He performed and the children shouting in the temple courts, “Hosanna to the Son of David!”

16“Do You hear what these children are saying?” they asked. ‘From the mouths of children and infants You have ordained praise’?”

17Then He left them and went out of the city to Bethany, where He spent the night.

18In the morning, as Jesus was returning to the city, He was hungry.

19Seeing a fig tree by the road, He went up to it but found nothing on it except leaves. “May you never bear fruit again!” He said. And immediately the tree withered.

Read all of Matthew 21 — Jesus rides into Jerusalem on a donkey while the crowds shout hosanna. Within hours, he's overturning tables in the temple.

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