Matthew 2:22 facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Matthew 2:22 |
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2:23 →
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The Division of Herod's Kingdom:
Territory under Herod Archelaus, from 6 Iudaea Province Territory under Herod Antipas Territory under Herod Philip II Salome I (cities of Jabneh, Azotas, Phaesalis) Roman province of Syria Autonomous cities (Decapolis) |
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| Book | Gospel of Matthew |
| Christian Bible part | New Testament |
Matthew 2:22 is a verse from the Gospel of Matthew in the New Testament of the Bible. It tells a part of the story of the young Jesus, his mother Mary, and his stepfather Joseph. They had just returned from Egypt, where they had gone to escape King Herod the Great.
Contents
What Happens in Matthew 2:22?
This verse explains what happened when the Holy Family returned. Joseph heard that Archelaus was now ruling in Judea. Archelaus was the son of the recently deceased King Herod. Joseph was afraid to go back to Judea because of this.
God then warned Joseph in a dream. Because of this warning, Joseph decided not to go to Judea. Instead, he took his family to the region of Galilee.
Why Was Joseph Afraid of Archelaus?
Herod the Great was a powerful but often cruel king. When he died, his kingdom was divided among his sons. Archelaus received the largest part, including Judea. He was known to be just as harsh, or even harsher, than his father.
Joseph likely knew about Archelaus's reputation. He wanted to keep Jesus and Mary safe. This is why he was worried about returning to Judea.
God's Guidance Through Dreams
In the Bible, dreams are often used by God to give messages. Joseph had already received warnings and instructions in dreams before. For example, an angel told him in a dream to take Jesus and Mary to Egypt.
In Matthew 2:22, a dream again guided Joseph. It helped him make a safe choice for his family. This shows how God protected Jesus even when he was a baby.
Where Did They Go?
Instead of Judea, Joseph took his family to Galilee. This was a region to the north of Judea. It was ruled by another of Herod's sons, Herod Antipas. While Antipas was also a ruler, Galilee was generally considered safer for them.
The family settled in the town of Nazareth in Galilee. This move fulfilled an old prophecy. It showed that Jesus would be called a Nazarene.
