Luke 2:39

39 When Joseph and Mary had finished doing all that was required by the Law of the Lord, they returned to their hometown of Nazareth in Galilee. 1

Luke 2:39 Meaning and Commentary

Luke 2:39

And when they had performed all things
Relating to the purification of Mary, and the presentation and redemption of her firstborn, and the sacrifices and ceremonies belonging thereunto:

according to the law of the Lord;
which that directed to, and enjoined:

they returned into Galilee:
not that they came from thence to Jerusalem, but from Bethlehem, where Mary gave birth, and her time for purification was now just expired: nor did they go now directly to Galilee; or, if they did, they soon came back again to Bethlehem, since here the wise men found them two years after; when by a divine warning, they went into Egypt, where they remained till Herod's death, and after came into the land of Israel, into the parts of Galilee, and dwelt at Nazareth; for which reason it is here called their own city;

to their own city Nazareth:
Bethlehem was their native city, the place of their birth, at least of their family; and Nazareth was the city of their habitation.

Luke 2:39 In-Context

38 That very same hour she arrived and gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were waiting for God to set Jerusalem free.
39 When Joseph and Mary had finished doing all that was required by the Law of the Lord, they returned to their hometown of Nazareth in Galilee.
40 The child grew and became strong; he was full of wisdom, and God's blessings were upon him.
41 Every year the parents of Jesus went to Jerusalem for the Passover Festival.

Cross References 1

  • 1. 2.39Matthew 2.23.
Scripture taken from the Good News Translation - Second Edition, Copyright 1992 by American Bible Society. Used by Permission.