John 12:12

τῇ ἐπαύριον. From the date given John 12:1, consequently Nisan 9, from Saturday evening to Sunday evening, if the chronology given on John 12:1 is correct. S. John seems distinctly to assert that the Triumphal Entry followed the supper at Bethany: S. Matthew and S. Mark both place the supper after the entry, S. Matthew without any date and probably neglecting (as often) the chronological order, S. Mark also without date, yet apparently implying (John 14:1) that the supper took place two days before the Passover. But the date in Mark 14:1 covers only two verses and must not be carried further in contradiction to S. John’s precise and consistent arrangement. S. John omits all details respecting the procuring of the young ass.

ὄχλος πολύς. Perhaps, as in John 12:9, we should read ὁ ὄχλος πολύς, and understand the expression as one word, the common people. In both verses authorities are divided as to the insertion or omission of the article. But ‘the common people’ here are not Judaeans, but pilgrims from other parts, who have no prejudice against Jesus.