New Testament

Luke 2:19

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.

What Luke 2:19 means

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.

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

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of the shepherds who heard the news of Jesus' birth

Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Shepherds Visit (Luke 2:8–20)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Jesus

An old color photograph of Nazareth spread across a hillside in Galilee.

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Nazareth

The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Luke 2:19

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Luke 2:19

At a Glance — the Book of Luke

Author
Luke the physician
Written
Around AD 60-62
Genre
Gospel and history
Original Audience
Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)

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.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.