Why did Jesus cleanse the temple?

The cleansing of the temple by Jesus, as recorded in Matthew 21:12-13, was a significant act symbolizing His righteous indignation against the perversion of true worship. The temple, intended to be a place set apart for prayer and reverence, had been transformed into a marketplace, emphasizing self-interest over divine worship. Jesus’ actions served to restore the holiness of the temple and highlight the seriousness of God's standards for worship, reminding all that worship must be conducted in 'spirit and truth' rather than through corrupt practices.