New Testament
Luke 2:19
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Mary reflects on the events surrounding the birth of Jesus.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart.
But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Mary reflects on the events surrounding the birth of Jesus. After the shepherds visit and share the news of the angel's announcement, Mary takes time to consider the significance of these experiences. The word "pondered" suggests deep thought and contemplation, indicating that Mary is not just passively receiving information but actively engaging with it. She is processing the miraculous nature of her son's birth and the implications it holds for her and the world. This moment highlights Mary's role as a thoughtful and reflective mother, who cherishes these extraordinary events in her heart. It also emphasizes the importance of meditation and reflection in understanding our own experiences and faith. By keeping these memories close, Mary prepares herself for the challenges and joys that lie ahead in raising Jesus, the Messiah.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 2:19 to your life
We can learn from Mary’s example to take time to reflect on our own experiences and the ways God is working in our lives. By pondering significant moments, we deepen our understanding and strengthen our faith, allowing us to navigate life's challenges with greater wisdom.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 2:19 mean?
Luke 2:19 means that Mary took time to reflect on the events surrounding Jesus' birth. It shows her deep contemplation of the significance of these miraculous occurrences.
What is the significance of 'pondered' in Luke 2:19?
The word 'pondered' in Luke 2:19 indicates that Mary was deeply thinking about and considering the events she experienced. It highlights her active engagement with the meaning of her son's birth.
How can we apply Luke 2:19 to our lives?
We can apply Luke 2:19 by taking time to reflect on our own experiences and recognizing how they shape our faith. Like Mary, we can deepen our understanding of God's work in our lives through contemplation.
What themes are present in Luke 2:19?
Themes in Luke 2:19 include reflection, motherhood, faith, miracles, and the significance of events. These themes highlight the importance of thoughtful consideration in understanding our experiences.

The Book of Luke
Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold
In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.
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