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 2:43KJV
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Luke 2:43 (KJV)

What does Luke 2:43 mean?

Luke 2:43 describes how, after completing their visit to Jerusalem for a festival, Mary and Joseph began their journey home, but the young Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem without their knowledge. The verse highlights that Joseph and Mary were unaware that Jesus was not with them as they left the city.

This verse is set during Jesus’ childhood, when his family traveled to Jerusalem for the Passover festival. The story shows a moment of separation, which sets up the following verses where Mary and Joseph realize Jesus is missing and search for him. The verse quietly emphasizes both the normalcy of family travel in large groups and the unique path Jesus’ life would take.

The Greek behind Luke 2:43

  • παιδίον (paidion, “child”): This word refers specifically to a young child, emphasizing Jesus’ youth at this moment, which adds to the surprise that he would stay behind on his own.
  • ὑπέμεινεν (hupemeinen, “tarried behind”): This word carries the sense of deliberately remaining or staying behind, suggesting that Jesus’ action was intentional rather than accidental.
  • Ἰωσὴφ (Iōsēph, “Joseph”) and μήτηρ (mētēr, “mother”): The verse names Joseph and Mary specifically, highlighting their roles as Jesus’ earthly parents and their responsibility in the story.

Why Luke 2:43 matters

  • Luke 2:43 helps clear up the misconception that Jesus was left behind due to parental neglect; instead, it reflects the common practice of traveling in large groups, where children might be assumed to be with relatives or friends.
  • The verse sets the stage for the significant event of Jesus being found in the temple, which reveals his early awareness of his unique relationship with God.
  • This moment marks an early sign of Jesus’ independence and purpose, themes that will develop throughout Luke’s Gospel.

Where else these words appear

“behind” Greek G5278 · used in 16 verses

  • Matthew 10:22 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.
  • 1 Corinthians 13:7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
  • Hebrews 12:3 For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.

“fulfilled” Greek G5048 · used in 24 verses

  • Luke 13:32 And he said unto them, Go ye, and tell that fox, Behold, I cast out devils, and I do cures to day and to morrow, and the third day I shall be perfected.
  • 2 Corinthians 12:9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
  • Hebrews 10:14 For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.

“child” Greek G3816 · used in 24 verses

  • Matthew 2:16 Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently enquired of the wise men.
  • Matthew 21:15 And when the chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things that he did, and the children crying in the temple, and saying, Hosanna to the Son of David; they were sore displeased,
  • Luke 15:26 And he called one of the servants, and asked what these things meant.

“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.