What does Luke 2:39 mean?

And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth. Luke 2:39

Explanation

Luke 2:39 describes the return of Mary, Joseph, and Jesus to Galilee, specifically to their hometown of Nazareth, after completing the required religious rituals in Jerusalem. The phrase “all things according to the law of the Lord” likely refers to the rituals of circumcision, which was performed on the eighth day after Jesus’ birth, and the purification of Mary, who, according to Mosaic Law, needed to wait a specified period before being purified at the Temple. This verse emphasizes the obedience of Mary and Joseph to Jewish law and their return to Nazareth where Jesus would grow up.

Historical Context

This verse is set in the early first century within the context of Jewish life under Roman occupation. The Gospel of Luke was written to provide an orderly account of the life of Jesus, with an emphasis on historical details and the fulfillment of Jewish law and prophecy. At the time, it was customary for Jewish people to go to the Temple in Jerusalem for purification and dedicatory rituals following childbirth, and these practices are acknowledged in Luke’s Gospel to show the devoutness of Jesus’ earthly parents and his connection to Jewish customs.

Theological Insights

Theologically, Luke 2:39 sets the stage for Jesus’ humble beginnings and his identification with the people of Israel. By noting that everything was done according to the law of the Lord, the verse underlines the theme of Jesus’ perfect obedience to the Law, which plays a significant role in Christian theology. Jesus is portrayed as fulfilling the Law both by his actions and by the actions of his parents. In some Christian teachings, this fulfillment is part of the proof of his Messiahship, as the one who not only obeys the Law but also completes it.

Practical Applications

This verse serves as a model of obedience and fidelity to religious customs and laws for believers. It suggests the importance of fulfilling religious obligations and returning to one’s roots or community. For modern Christians, it also speaks to the value of heritage and remaining true to one’s faith amidst the obligations of life. Parents may find inspiration in Mary and Joseph’s dedication to raising Jesus within the customs of their faith.

Cross-References

• Luke 2:21 – “And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb.”
• Luke 2:22-24 – “And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord; (…) and to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.”

Language Study

The key words in Luke 2:39 in the original Greek text include:

• “performed” (πληρόω; plēroō) implies to complete or fulfill an obligation;
• “law” (νόμος; nomos) refers to the Jewish Law or Torah;
• “Lord” (κύριος; kyrios) is used for God or the divine in this context;
• “returned” (ανακάμπτω; anakamptō) meaning to turn back or go back.

This analysis enhances the understanding that Mary and Joseph were careful to do all that was required under Jewish law for their son and for themselves. It also establishes that their journey back to Nazareth was a conscious return to their familiar life after accomplishing these religious duties.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the broader cultural context of ancient religions, many cultures had purification rituals, especially after childbirth. This concept is not unique to Judaism but is seen across various ancient religions and myths. However, the specificity with which Jewish law prescribed these rituals is unique, and it reinforces the identity and separateness of the Jewish people in the ancient world.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the practices and rituals mentioned in the verse are of interest from a sociological and anthropological point of view. They provide insights into the public health practices of ancient societies, such as isolation following childbirth, which may have had unintended hygienic benefits. However, scientific analysis does not typically intersect directly with the narrative’s theological significance.

Commentaries

Various Biblical scholars and commentaries offer different perspectives on Luke 2:39. Some emphasize the importance of the law in establishing Jesus’ Jewish identity and his parents’ piety. Others focus on the importance of Nazareth as a formative place for Jesus and as a fulfillment of prophecy, since it was understood that the Messiah would be called a Nazarene (though no explicit Old Testament prophecy states this, it may be an inferred association). Commentators often discuss the mundane life of Jesus that followed, as contrasted with the extraordinary circumstances of his birth and dedication—that he grew and lived as an ordinary Jewish child in a small Galilean town until his public ministry began.