A yoke, which connects two animals, symbolizes the demands of being a disciple of Jesus. Unlike the "yoke" of religious leaders, the yoke of Jesus is easy and light. This is not because it demands less of a person (see 7:13–14). But it is because the Messiah's power through the Holy Spirit makes it possible (see Acts 15:10; 1 John 5:3).
Israel's spiritual leaders imposed religious demands (see Matthew 23:4; Acts 15:10). This included 613 Old Testament commands and added traditions. Jesus urged those burdened by the Pharisees' rules to come to him (see Matthew 11:28) to find the salvation for which they deeply longed. This call to salvation involves living obediently to the new teachings of Jesus. Jesus invites people to build a relationship with a humble and gentle teacher.