Palm Sunday is a Christian festival that commemorates Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem.
Palm Sunday is a Christian festival that commemorates Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. The name comes from the palm branches that worshippers wave in church on this day, although it has also been known as “Resurrection Sunday” or “Passion Sunday” in the past. This year Palm Sunday falls on March 25th, which means it will be a busy day for the UK’s religious leaders and politicians. Here’s what you need to know about Palm Sunday and why Christians celebrate it.
What is Palm Sunday?
The term “Palm Sunday” comes from the fact that people carry palm branches to church on this day, waving them around during the service as a symbol of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. This year Palm Sunday falls on March 25th, which means it will be a busy day for the UK’s religious leaders and politicians. Here’s what you need to know about Palm Sunday and why Christians celebrate it.
Why do we celebrate Palm Sunday?
“The Triumphal Entry”
Jesus was welcomed by crowds of people who waved palm branches at him as he rode into Jerusalem on a donkey. This was meant to show their respect for him, but also served as an act of mockery towards his status as King of Israel because only Roman emperors were allowed to ride horses through Jerusalem at this time. In fact, many scholars believe that this was one of the reasons why Judas betrayed Jesus – he saw his leader being mocked by people who should have been worshipping him.
The event has come to be known as “the Triumphal Entry” because Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem signified his acceptance by God and his coming victory over death.
“The Last Supper”
Jesus also celebrated his last supper with his disciples before being arrested and crucified.
“Passover”
During Passover Jews eat unleavened bread (matzo) instead of normal bread during their meals because they are forbidden from eating leavened bread during this period.
“Tombstone”
Many churches will place tombstones outside their churches or hold services inside tombs to commemorate Jesus’ death.
