Matthew 2:1

The Visit of the Wise Men

2:1 After Jesus was born in Bethlehem 1  in Judea, in the time 2  of King Herod, 3  wise men 4  from the East came to Jerusalem 5 

Matthew 2:5-6

2:5 “In Bethlehem of Judea,” they said, “for it is written this way by the prophet:

2:6 ‘And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,

are in no way least among the rulers of Judah,

for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’” 6 

1 map For location see Map5-B1; Map7-E2; Map8-E2; Map10-B4.

2 tn Grk “in the days.”

3 sn King Herod was Herod the Great, who ruled Palestine from 37 b.c. until he died in 4 b.c. He was known for his extensive building projects (including the temple in Jerusalem) and for his cruelty.

4 sn The Greek term magi here describes a class of wise men and priests who were astrologers (L&N 32.40).

5 map For location see Map5-B1; Map6-F3; Map7-E2; Map8-F2; Map10-B3; JP1-F4; JP2-F4; JP3-F4; JP4-F4.

6 sn A quotation from Mic 5:2.