Matthew 2:23 (KJV)

What does Matthew 2:23 mean?

Matthew 2:23 says that Joseph, Mary, and Jesus settled in the city of Nazareth so that what was spoken by the prophets—“He shall be called a Nazarene”—would be fulfilled. This verse connects Jesus’ upbringing in Nazareth with Old Testament prophetic expectations.

Matthew is narrating how Joseph brought his family to Nazareth after returning from Egypt, choosing this city for safety and to fulfill prophecy. The verse highlights Matthew’s theme that Jesus’ life events match what the prophets foretold, even though the exact phrase “He shall be called a Nazarene” does not appear in the Old Testament. Matthew is likely referring to a general prophetic idea rather than quoting a specific verse.

The Greek behind Matthew 2:23

• Ναζαρηνός (Nazarēnos, G3480): This word means “Nazarene,” referring to someone from Nazareth. The term also carried a sense of being despised or insignificant, which may connect to prophetic themes about the Messiah’s humble origins.
• πληρωθῇ (plērōthē, G4137): This word means “fulfilled.” Matthew uses it to show that Jesus’ move to Nazareth fits into God’s larger plan as foretold by the prophets.
• προφητῶν (prophētōn, G4396): This is the plural form for “prophets,” indicating Matthew is summarizing the message of several prophets rather than quoting one directly.

Why Matthew 2:23 matters

• Matthew 2:23 helps explain why Jesus is often called “Jesus of Nazareth” and why that title matters in the story of his life and ministry.
• The verse shows Matthew’s method of connecting Jesus’ life to Old Testament prophecies, even when the wording is not a direct quote, emphasizing fulfillment of God’s plan.
• Understanding that “He shall be called a Nazarene” is not a direct Old Testament quotation clears up confusion and shows Matthew’s focus on the broader prophetic theme of the Messiah’s humble and unexpected background.