Palm Sunday

Palm Sunday is the Sunday before Easter according to Christian tradition in order to mark the beginning of Jesus in Jerusalem and the Holy Week. When Jesus arrived in Jerusalem, palm branches are used as a sign of victory through the streets.

Origin of Palm Sunday

Of course, Palm Sunday is an important day in the history of Christianity. Much can be said about this event, from its historical significance to what it implies religiously and the like. We take you back to times when religious miracles were rampant.

Essentially, Palm Sunday marks Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem. He rides a donkey and people greet him with palm leaves. They spread leaves (and their robes!) on the ground when Jesus entered the city. It is also said that Jesus used some palm leaves to wave them when he passed. Jesus' return to the city also fulfilled the Prophet Zachariah's prophecy that the Messiah would return and bring good omens to the people of Jerusalem. While Jesus’s arrival, "Hosanna!” means "Lord save" or "Save now" which are shouted loudly. The people consider him the king and ruler of the city, many have known that he can perform miracles such as raising the dead and speaking in childhood.

There is also the symbolism associated with Palm Sunday. Palm trees are recognized as a sign of peace and victory, and Jesus' entrance is marked by these trees towards the coming peace and victory that everyone is hoping for. Another symbol is the donkey, and during that time the lords, hostile towards them, would ride horses. On the other hand, however, well-meaning and peaceful kings would ride donkeys to signify their gentle intentions.

Palm Sunday, also known as Passion Sunday, is followed by other important dates like Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, with each day having a special meaning to itself. Visiting churches and reenacting Jesus' entrance are some ways to celebrate. They also take special care of palm leaves this week because these leaves are considered sacred. The leaves are burned and used as ashes later in the week.

Reasons for Palm Sunday being loved

• It is a celebration of peace and tenderness

In a world divided by violence and polarization, things like peace, calm, and tenderness are essential. Palm Sunday gives us some moment to appreciate the gift of life.

• It is a celebration of hope and harmony

The people of Jerusalem had been waiting ages for the Messiah to come. Prophet Zachariah's prophecy took a while to happen, but it worked out in the end. Palm Sunday always promises better times to come.

• It's a celebration of different cultures

Although Palm Sunday has some certain standards, each culture will have a separate way to commemorate this day with its typical customs and traditions. It is a sign of unity including unity in togetherness and unity in uniqueness.

How to celebrate Palm Sunday

• Visit a church on Palm Sunday

You can visit a church and participate in/observe the celebrations. Each country has its own customs, so you can expect a different range of situations. In any case, it will be worthy if you will become a part of the spirit of peace and tenderness.

• Help your friends prepare

As with all important dates, there is a lot of prep work and so little time to do them. Your friends will appreciate it if you lend a hand. Unity is another important part of Palm Sunday and by helping your friends you are instilling that spirit.

• Prepare / Learn about Palm Sunday

Palm Sunday only marks one important day of the upcoming week. There's Good Friday and Happy Tuesday, just to name a few. Each of these, up to Easter, recounts the journey Jesus took.