No, He did not downplay it. Jesus never said He was a king and did not want to be king.
"Jesus, knowing that they intended to come and make him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by himself." - John 6:15
You're pushing falsehoods.
No it wasn't literal. They wanted to make a name for themselves (for God) so language was confused. Jesus told you, I AM. People will kill you over a name.
Jesus told you, ALL THESE THINGS are done in parable so some are ever seeing but never perceiving. He spoke in parables and asked them "If you don't understand this parable how will you understand any of the parables?" because the OT is full of parables.
It's not until Revelation happens that the scrolls are unsealed (understood), which is happening now.
Symbolism will be their downfall.
I always find it hilarious when someone as ignorant as yourself tries to insult others.
"For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known."
"For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known."