New Testament
Mark 11:2
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He told them, "Go into the village just ahead of you. As soon as you enter it, you'll find a young donkey tied up that no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here."
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And saith unto them, Go your way into the village over against you: and as soon as ye be entered into it, ye shall find a colt tied, whereon never man sat; loose him, and bring him.
What Mark 11:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus instructs his disciples to go to a nearby village where they will find a young donkey that has never been ridden. This donkey is tied up, and Jesus tells them to untie it and bring it to him. This moment is significant because it fulfills the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9, which speaks of a king coming to Jerusalem riding on a donkey. The fact that the donkey has never been ridden before symbolizes its purity and readiness for a special purpose. By sending his disciples to fetch the donkey, Jesus demonstrates his authority and foreknowledge, as he knows exactly what they will find. This act also sets the stage for his triumphant entry into Jerusalem, where he will be recognized as the Messiah. The disciples' obedience in following Jesus' instructions highlights the importance of faith and trust in his guidance, even when the task may seem unusual or unexpected.
How to apply Mark 11:2 to your life
This verse encourages us to trust and obey God's instructions, even when they seem strange or unclear. Just as the disciples followed Jesus' command, we should be willing to act on our faith, knowing that God has a purpose for our actions and that he sees the bigger picture.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Triumphal Entry (Mark 11:1–11)
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Jesus
Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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David's capital, the city of the temple, and the place where Jesus died and rose again.
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Keep studying Mark 11:2
Related Bible verses
Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Mark
- Author
- John Mark
- Written
- Around AD 55-65
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Roman and Gentile Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Mark 11:2 mean?
Mark 11:2 describes Jesus instructing his disciples to find a young donkey in a nearby village. This act is significant as it fulfills the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9 about a king entering Jerusalem on a donkey, symbolizing peace and humility.
What is the significance of the donkey in Mark 11:2?
The donkey in Mark 11:2 symbolizes purity and readiness for a special purpose, as it had never been ridden before. This detail highlights the importance of the moment, as Jesus prepares for his triumphant entry into Jerusalem.
Why did Jesus ask for a donkey in Mark 11:2?
Jesus asked for a donkey to fulfill the prophecy of a king coming to Jerusalem in a humble manner. This act demonstrates his authority and foreknowledge, as he knew exactly where the donkey would be.
How does Mark 11:2 relate to obedience?
Mark 11:2 illustrates the theme of obedience, as the disciples follow Jesus' unusual instructions without question. Their willingness to act on faith emphasizes the importance of trusting God's guidance.
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