On Holy Monday, which is the second day of Holy Week following Palm Sunday, several significant events involving Jesus Christ took place according to the Christian Gospels:
- Jesus cursed a fig tree for being fruitless, using it as a metaphor to teach about genuine faith and the consequences of fruitless religion. This act symbolized judgment on those who practiced empty rituals without true faith
- Jesus proceeded to the Temple in Jerusalem and cleansed it by overturning the tables of the money changers and driving out those conducting business there. He condemned the Temple for being turned into a "den of thieves," criticizing the corruption and irreverence of the religious leaders
- The religious authorities questioned Jesus' authority during this time, attempting to challenge him, but Jesus responded with wisdom and parables that further exposed their hypocrisy
- Jesus also used this day to teach his disciples about the power of faith, saying that faith as small as a mustard seed could move mountains if aligned with God's will
These events on Holy Monday marked a deliberate and confrontational step in Jesus' final week, highlighting his authority, the call for true faith, and the impending judgment on corrupt religious leadership. This set the stage for the escalating tensions that would lead to his crucifixion later in the week
. In summary, Holy Monday is remembered for the cursing of the fig tree, the cleansing of the Temple, Jesus' authoritative teachings, and the challenge to the religious leaders, all of which underscore themes of judgment, faith, and preparation for the Passion of Christ.
