Jesus’ Palm Sunday entry into Jerusalem is traditionally called His triumphal entry, but more accurately, it was His coronation as the true King. Jesus entered the city on a young donkey: at that time the Jews regarded animals that had never been ridden as especially suited for holy purposes. The people alongside the road spread their clothes, part of the ancient practice of welcoming a new king. The palm branches they waved symbolized joy and salvation. The crowd was excited and filled with praise for the Messiah who taught with such authority, healed the sick, and raised Lazarus from the dead. The people’s cry of “Hosanna!” was originally a Hebrew prayer meaning “save now.”