What does Luke 2:27 mean?

And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, Luke 2:27

Explanation

Luke 2:27 depicts a momentous occasion in the life of Jesus and his earthly parents, Mary and Joseph, as they adhere to the traditions and laws of their faith. The verse illustrates the Holy Family’s visit to the temple in Jerusalem, which was not merely a social call but a religious duty they were fulfilling. According to Jewish Law, every firstborn male child was to be presented to the Lord as holy (see Exodus 13:2,12). This act was associated with the redemption of the firstborn, known as ‘Pidyon haben,’ and was a reminder of God’s deliverance of Israel’s firstborn during the Passover in Egypt.

The verse mentions that Joseph and Mary were bringing Baby Jesus to the temple to “do for him after the custom of the law,” which refers to this act of consecration and, in the case of Jesus, would also include the offering made for Mary’s purification after childbirth, as prescribed in Leviticus 12. The phrase “And he came by the Spirit” indicates that the actions of the characters in this narrative are guided by the Holy Spirit, implying divine intervention and the fulfillment of God’s will through the lives of these individuals.

This scene is especially poignant because it reveals the mission of Jesus being acknowledged and set into motion even during his infancy, suggesting the preparation of a life destined for divine purpose.

Historical Context

The Gospel of Luke is believed to have been written around 80-110 AD. The author, traditionally identified as Luke the Evangelist, a Greek physician and companion of Apostle Paul, provides detailed accounts of Jesus’ life, connecting events to the expectations of Jewish Law and prophecy.

The Jewish customs were deeply ingrained in the lives of those living in Judea and the surrounding regions during this period. The practice of presenting the firstborn at the temple, along with the requisite offerings, was a significant ritual observed by devout Jews. This action highlighted their obedience to the Mosaic Law and their cultural identity.

The Second Temple stood during this period, serving as the religious epicenter for the Jewish people until its destruction in 70 AD. It was customary for families to travel to Jerusalem to fulfill their religious obligations at the temple as Joseph and Mary did.

Theological Insights

Christian theologians often emphasize the significance of the Holy Spirit’s guidance in the events described in Luke 2:27. There is a symbolism in the presentation of Jesus at the temple, which signifies Jesus as the new temple and the ultimate sacrifice, supplanting the need for further sacrifices as prescribed in the Law.

From a Christian perspective, the infant Jesus’ presentation in the temple is seen as an early acknowledgment of his Messiahship. This is reinforced in subsequent verses where Simeon, a righteous and devout man who was promised by the Holy Spirit that he would see the Messiah before his death, recognizes Jesus as the Christ upon seeing him in the temple.

Practical Applications

This verse can be reflected upon for its themes of obedience, humility, and adherence to community and religious customs. Even the Holy Family, with the knowledge of Jesus’ divine role, did not neglect their duties and followed the law of the land.

In practical application, individuals can find inspiration in the intentionality with which Joseph and Mary followed their faith. Believers are reminded of the importance of being led by the Spirit and maintaining commitment to religious observances, while also being open to the greater plans that God may have for them.

Cross-References

• Exodus 13:2,12: “Sanctify unto me all the firstborn, whatsoever openeth the womb among the children of Israel, both of man and of beast: it is mine.”
• Leviticus 12: The chapter outlines the laws regarding purification after childbirth, which include making an offering at the temple.
• Luke 2:34: “And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against;”

Language Study

The key word “Spirit” in the original Greek text of Luke is “πνεῦμα” (pneuma), which refers to the Holy Spirit or the Spirit of God and often conveys the idea of divine influence or power guiding individuals.

The term “temple,” in Greek “ἱερόν” (hieron), is used for the sacred precincts, the place set apart for worship and sacrifice. This term underscores the sanctity of the location where Jesus is being presented.

The phrase “to do for him after the custom of the law” implies fulfilling what was prescribed by the law. “Custom” translates from the Greek “εἰωθός” (eiothos), a word denoting a practice that has become habitual or traditional.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In various ancient cultures, presenting children to gods or bringing them to temples was a common religious practice. In Rome, for example, children were presented to the family gods (Lares and Penates). However, the context in Judaism is particularly tied to the historical redemption of the firstborn in Egypt and the continuing acknowledgment of God’s deliverance.

Comparatively, many ancient myths speak of the presentation or consecration of heroes and demigods in temples as well, although those narratives often carried different significance and did not involve the redemption concept found in the Jewish tradition.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the emphasis would likely be placed on the cultural and sociological importance of rituals such as the presentation at the temple, rather than any supernatural elements of the account. Anthropologists and sociologists might discuss how such rituals contribute to social cohesion and cultural identity among groups, as well as the psychological comfort and sense of community they can provide to individuals.

Commentaries

Commentators on this verse offer diverse insights:

• Some highlight the role of the Holy Spirit as guiding the events, underlining the providence of God in the salvation history narrative.
• Others focus on the faithfulness of Joseph and Mary to the Jewish law, which sets an example for following religious traditions while anticipating the unfolding of God’s salvation plan.
• Exegetes may also emphasize the contrast between Jesus as the firstborn who is being consecrated to God and his role as the one who would ultimately fulfill and complete the law through his ministry and sacrifice.