What does Luke 2:43 mean?

And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it. Luke 2:43

Explanation

Luke 2:43 recounts an episode from Jesus’ childhood. It describes a moment after the celebration of the Passover festival in Jerusalem, a major Jewish feast commemorating the Israelites’ liberation from Egyptian slavery. The verse depicts Mary and Joseph’s inadvertent departure from Jerusalem without their son Jesus, who has chosen to remain behind.

The literal reading of this verse shows that Jesus, as a child (traditionally understood to be around twelve years old at this time), stayed behind in the city without the knowledge of his parents. This indicates an early sign of Jesus’ independence and his unique sense of purpose and mission. The deeper meaning might suggest that Jesus, even as a child, was starting to manifest his divine identity and mission, which is not fully understood by his earthly parents.

Historical Context

Luke 2:43 is part of the narrative of the Gospel of Luke, which was written around AD 80-110, and presents Jesus within a historical framework. The story is set against the Jewish pilgrimage tradition, where families would travel to Jerusalem to celebrate Passover. It reflects the practice of the Israelite people to journey to the temple in Jerusalem as a central act of religious observance.

Theological Insights

The theological insights gleaned from this verse are multifaceted. From a Christian perspective, it hints at the divine wisdom and calling of Jesus, who even as a child, is portrayed as immersed in the affairs of his heavenly Father. It foreshadows Jesus’ later ministry, in which he frequents the temple, teaching and debating with the religious authorities.

Practical Applications

A practical application of Luke 2:43 might involve the idea of awareness and attentiveness to one’s calling or purpose in life. This verse could inspire individuals to consider how they might sometimes overlook important aspects of their life’s journey and to pay closer attention to where they might need to be more present.

Cross-References

• Luke 2:41: “Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the Passover.”
• Luke 2:49: “And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business?”

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the word translated as “tarried behind” is “ὑπομείνας” (hypomeinas), suggesting that Jesus did not merely get lost but actively chose to stay. The word “knew not” comes from the Greek “ἠγνόησαν” (ēgnōēsan), which indicates ignorance or unawareness on the part of Mary and Joseph.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparisons could be drawn to coming-of-age stories and events in other cultures and religions. Many such stories feature a young person demonstrating wisdom beyond their years or stepping into their own. The emphasis on the child’s independence and unfolding identity can be found across many traditions.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern psychology might interpret this verse through the lens of child development, acknowledging the complex dynamics between parents and children during transition phases towards adolescence, wherein the child starts to assert independence and explore their own identity more fully.

Commentaries

Commentators on this verse often highlight the humanity of Jesus, who grew up in a traditional Jewish family, observing Jewish customs. Many also underscore the foreshadowing of Jesus’ future ministry and his exceptional understanding of his spiritual mission, which even his earthly family could not fully grasp at the time.