And he arose, and took the young child and his mother, and came into the land of Israel.

MATTHEW 2:21KJV
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Matthew 2:21 (KJV)

What does Matthew 2:21 mean?

Matthew 2:21 describes how Joseph got up, took the young Jesus and Mary, and returned with them to the land of Israel. This happened after an angel told Joseph it was safe to leave Egypt because those who wanted to harm the child were dead.

In this verse, Matthew is narrating Joseph’s obedience to God’s guidance through an angelic message. Joseph, who had previously fled to Egypt to protect Jesus from King Herod, now brings his family back to Israel. The verse highlights Joseph’s role in caring for and protecting Jesus during his early years, and it sets the stage for the family’s return to their homeland after a time of danger.

The Greek behind Matthew 2:21

  • The word for "arose" (ἠγέρθη, ēgerthē) often carries the sense of getting up in response to a command or call, showing Joseph’s immediate obedience.
  • The word for "took" (παρέλαβεν, parelaben) means to take along or receive, emphasizing Joseph’s active role in leading and caring for his family.
  • The phrase "land of Israel" (γῆν Ἰσραήλ, gēn Israēl) is notable because Matthew uses this broad term instead of naming a specific region, which may echo Old Testament language and highlight the fulfillment of prophecy.

Why Matthew 2:21 matters

  • Matthew 2:21 clears up that Joseph did not act on his own initiative but followed divine direction, reinforcing the theme of God’s protection over Jesus.
  • The verse connects the story of Jesus’ early life to the larger narrative of Israel’s history, especially the pattern of exile and return.
  • By showing Joseph’s careful obedience, Matthew sets an example of faithfulness and trust in God’s guidance, which is a recurring theme throughout the Gospel.

Where else these words appear

“child” Greek G3813 · used in 48 verses

  • Matthew 2:8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.
  • Mark 5:40 And they laughed him to scorn. But when he had put them all out, he taketh the father and the mother of the damsel, and them that were with him, and entereth in where the damsel was lying.
  • Luke 2:40 And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.

“took” Greek G3880 · used in 50 verses

  • Matthew 1:20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.
  • Mark 5:40 And they laughed him to scorn. But when he had put them all out, he taketh the father and the mother of the damsel, and them that were with him, and entereth in where the damsel was lying.
  • Acts 16:33 And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway.

“Israel” Greek G2474 · used in 68 verses

  • Matthew 2:6 And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.
  • Luke 7:9 When Jesus heard these things, he marvelled at him, and turned him about, and said unto the people that followed him, I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.
  • Acts 28:20 For this cause therefore have I called for you, to see you, and to speak with you: because that for the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain.

“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 3:33 And he answered them, saying, Who is my mother, or my brethren?
  • 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.