And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.

LUKE 2:33KJV
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Luke 2:33 (KJV)

What does Luke 2:33 mean?

Luke 2:33 describes how Joseph and Mary were amazed at the things being said about Jesus by others. The verse highlights their wonder and surprise as they listened to what was spoken concerning their child.

In this scene, Joseph and Mary are in the temple with the infant Jesus. Simeon, a devout man, has just spoken prophetic words about Jesus’ future. The verse shows that even Jesus’ parents were struck by the significance of what was being said, underlining how extraordinary these events were for an ordinary family.

The Greek behind Luke 2:33

  • θαυμάζω (thaumazō, "marvelled"): This Greek word means to be amazed or astonished. It suggests a deep sense of wonder, not just mild surprise, showing how unexpected and profound Simeon’s words were to Joseph and Mary.
  • λαλέω (laleō, "spoken"): This word is often used for speaking or declaring important things. Here, it emphasizes that what was being said about Jesus carried weight and significance, not just casual remarks.

Why Luke 2:33 matters

  • This verse shows that even those closest to Jesus—his earthly parents—did not fully grasp the scope of his identity and mission at this early stage.
  • The amazement of Joseph and Mary connects the reader to the sense of awe that surrounds Jesus’ birth and early life, highlighting the extraordinary nature of the events.
  • Luke 2:33 helps set the stage for the rest of the chapter, where more is revealed about Jesus’ unique role and the reactions of those around him.

Where else these words appear

“Joseph” Greek G2501 · used in 34 verses

  • Matthew 1:16 And Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.
  • Luke 1:27 To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary.
  • John 4:5 Then cometh he to a city of Samaria, which is called Sychar, near to the parcel of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph.

“marvelled” Greek G2296 · used in 46 verses

  • Matthew 8:10 When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.
  • Luke 1:63 And he asked for a writing table, and wrote, saying, His name is John. And they marvelled all.
  • John 7:15 And the Jews marvelled, saying, How knoweth this man letters, having never learned?

“mother” Greek G3384 · used in 79 verses

  • Matthew 1:18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.
  • Mark 3:32 And the multitude sat about him, and they said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren without seek for thee.
  • Luke 8:21 And he answered and said unto them, My mother and my brethren are these which hear the word of God, and do it.