ISB ~ Matthew 21 v1 - 22

The first actions of Jesus during Passion Week—the triumphal entry (21:1-11), the cleansing of the temple (21:1217), and the cursing of the fig tree (21:18-22)—are all symbolic gestures. Jesus performs them as prophetic acts to demonstrate that he is the Messiah and that his coming marks the end of the Old Covenant. This provokes Jerusalem’s leadership to conspire and have him crucified (26:3-4; 27:1-2; CCC 559-60).