Return of the family of Jesus to Nazareth facts for kids
The return of the family of Jesus to Nazareth, also known as the return from Egypt, is an important part of the early life of Jesus. This story is found in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke in the Bible. Both Gospels agree that Jesus was born in Bethlehem. Later, he moved with his family to live in Nazareth.
The Gospel of Matthew tells us that Joseph, Mary, and Jesus went to Egypt. They did this to escape from Herod the Great. Herod was a king who ordered the killing of baby boys in Bethlehem. Matthew says Joseph was afraid to go back to Judea. This was because Herod Archelaus was ruling there. So, the family went to Nazareth instead.
The Gospel of Luke tells a different story. It does not mention the trip to Egypt. Instead, it says Joseph and Mary already lived in Nazareth. After Jesus was presented at the Temple, they simply returned home to Nazareth.
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Why Did Jesus' Family Return from Egypt?
The Bible says that the holy family returned from Egypt sometime after King Herod died. Most experts believe Herod died around 4 BCE (Before Common Era).
When they learned that Herod Archelaus was now ruling in Judea, they decided to go to Galilee instead. Archelaus was known for being a cruel ruler. Because of many complaints from the people, the Roman emperor Augustus removed him from power in 6 AD (Anno Domini). Archelaus was sent away to a place called Vienne in Gaul.
Galilee was ruled by Archelaus's brother, Herod Antipas. The family felt safer there. So, they settled in Nazareth, which was in Galilee.
What Is the Meaning of the Return to Nazareth?
In the Gospel of Matthew (chapter 2, verse 23), it says that Jesus' family moving to Nazareth fulfilled a prophecy. This prophecy said, "He shall be called a Nazarene."
It is not entirely clear which old prophecy Matthew was thinking of. Many Bible scholars suggest it might be from the book of Isaiah (chapter 11, verse 1). This verse says, "A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit." The Hebrew word for "branch" is nezer. Some believe this word sounds like "Nazarene" and connects to Jesus.
Some religious thinkers, like Cornelius a Lapide, have also connected "Nazarene" to words meaning "separate," "holy," or "consecrated." They believe it shows that Jesus was special and set apart for God.
How Is This Story Shown in Art?
The journey of Jesus' family returning from Egypt has been a popular subject for artists throughout history. Many paintings and artworks show this important moment.
See also
Images for kids
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The Return from Egypt by James Tissot
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