Matthew 20:29 (KJV)

What does Matthew 20:29 mean?

Matthew 20:29 describes Jesus and his disciples leaving the city of Jericho, with a large crowd following them. The verse sets the scene for what happens next, showing that many people were interested in Jesus and wanted to be near him as he traveled.

In this verse, the Gospel writer Matthew is narrating the events as Jesus is on his way to Jerusalem. The mention of Jericho is specific, placing Jesus and his followers in a real location just before important events unfold. The detail about the "great multitude" highlights how Jesus attracted attention and followers wherever he went, setting up the context for the miracles and teachings that follow in the next verses.

The Greek behind Matthew 20:29

• "πολὺς" (polys, "great"): This word describes the size of the crowd, emphasizing that it was not just a handful of people but a significant number. It shows the widespread interest in Jesus at this point in his ministry.
• "ὄχλος" (ochlos, "multitude"): This term often refers to a crowd of ordinary people, not just a select group. It underlines that Jesus' appeal reached many different kinds of people, not just his closest disciples.
• "ἠκολούθησεν" (ēkolouthēsen, "followed"): The Greek word carries the sense of physically going after someone, but it can also suggest a kind of allegiance or interest. Here, it mainly means the crowd was traveling with Jesus, but it hints at their desire to see what he would do next.

Why Matthew 20:29 matters

• This verse helps the reader understand that Jesus' actions were public and witnessed by many, which adds credibility to the events that follow.
• By mentioning Jericho and the large crowd, Matthew connects this moment to Old Testament themes and the journey toward Jerusalem, signaling that something significant is about to happen.
• The presence of the crowd sets the stage for the miracles and teachings that immediately follow, showing that Jesus' ministry was not done in isolation but in the midst of the people.