Matthew 1:19 facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Matthew 1:19 |
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← 1:18
1:20 →
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Legendary Rendering of the Marriage between Joseph and Mary, Nativity Façade from Plaça de Gaudí, Barcelona (October 2009)
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| Book | Gospel of Matthew |
| Christian Bible part | New Testament |
Matthew 1:19 is the nineteenth verse of the first chapter in the Gospel of Matthew. This book is part of the New Testament in the Bible. This verse describes an important moment for Joseph, who was engaged to Mary, the mother of Jesus. In the verse just before this one, Joseph learns that Mary is pregnant. Matthew 1:19 tells us what Joseph decided to do next.
Contents
Joseph's Difficult Choice
When Joseph found out Mary was pregnant, he faced a very tough decision. In their culture, being engaged was almost like being married. If an engaged woman was found to be pregnant before marriage, it was a very serious matter.
Why Joseph Was Concerned
The Bible says Joseph was a "just man." This means he was fair and followed the laws and customs of his time. According to the law, he could have publicly ended his engagement to Mary. This would have brought great shame and trouble to Mary. However, Joseph did not want to cause her public disgrace. He cared about Mary and wanted to protect her feelings and reputation.
What "Put Her Away Privily" Meant
Because Joseph was a good and kind man, he thought about ending their engagement "privily." This means he planned to do it quietly and in private, without making a big public fuss. He wanted to avoid shaming Mary in front of everyone. This shows his compassionate nature and his desire to do what was right, even in a very difficult situation.
Different Bible Translations
The Bible was originally written in ancient languages like Koine Greek. Over time, it has been translated into many languages, including English. Different translations try to capture the original meaning in slightly different ways.
King James Version
The King James Version of this verse says:
- Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to
- make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily.
New International Version
The New International Version translates it as:
- Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law,
- and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace,
- he had in mind to divorce her quietly.
Both translations show Joseph's kindness and his wish to protect Mary from public shame, even though he was confused and troubled by her pregnancy.
See also
- Christian views on divorce
