Luke 2:22 (KJV)

What does Luke 2:22 mean?

Luke 2:22 describes how, after the required days for Mary’s purification were completed according to the law of Moses, Mary and Joseph brought Jesus to Jerusalem to present him to God. This verse shows the family following Jewish customs and laws after Jesus’ birth.

The setting is shortly after Jesus’ birth, with Mary and Joseph acting in obedience to the religious laws given through Moses. The verse refers to the purification period a woman observed after childbirth, as outlined in the Old Testament, and the tradition of presenting a firstborn son at the temple. Luke is narrating this to show Jesus’ family’s faithfulness to Jewish law and tradition.

The Greek behind Luke 2:22

• καθαρισμός (katharismos, G2512): This word means “purification.” In this context, it refers to the ceremonial cleansing required for a woman after childbirth, as described in the law of Moses. It highlights the family’s observance of religious rituals.
• νόμος (nomos, G3551): This is the Greek word for “law,” specifically pointing to the law of Moses. The verse emphasizes that Mary and Joseph’s actions were in line with the established religious requirements.
• προσφέρω (prospherō, G3936): Translated here as “to present,” this word means to bring or offer someone or something. It underlines the act of dedicating Jesus to God at the temple, a significant moment in Jewish tradition.

Why Luke 2:22 matters

• Luke 2:22 clarifies that Jesus’ family was observant of Jewish law, countering any idea that they disregarded the traditions of their people.
• The verse connects Jesus’ early life to the Old Testament, showing continuity between the Hebrew Scriptures and the story of Jesus.
• This detail sets the stage for the following events in the temple, including the encounters with Simeon and Anna, which further reveal Jesus’ identity and mission.