New Testament
Luke 2:21
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On the 8th day, when it was time for the child to be circumcised, they named him Jesus — the name the angel had given him before he was even conceived.
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And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb.
What Luke 2:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see the fulfillment of Jewish customs regarding the birth of a male child. Circumcision was an important ritual that marked the child's entry into the covenant community of Israel. On the eighth day after Jesus' birth, Mary and Joseph followed this tradition, which also included naming the child. The name 'Jesus' was given by the angel before his conception, signifying his divine purpose and identity as the Savior. This moment highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands and the significance of Jesus' name, which means 'the Lord saves.' It emphasizes that Jesus was destined for a special role even before his birth, fulfilling prophecies and God's plan for humanity. This act of naming and circumcision not only connects Jesus to Jewish heritage but also sets the stage for his mission on earth.
How to apply Luke 2:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to honor traditions and practices that connect us to our faith. It reminds us of the importance of obedience to God's commands and the significance of names and identities in our spiritual journey. We should reflect on our own names and what they signify in our relationship with God.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Jesus Presented at the Temple (Luke 2:21–38)
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Jesus
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.
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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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Keep studying Luke 2:21
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Key themes
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 2:21 mean?
Luke 2:21 describes the circumcision and naming of Jesus on the eighth day after his birth, following Jewish customs. This act signifies Jesus' entry into the covenant community and highlights the importance of his name, which was given by an angel before his conception.
What is the significance of circumcision in Luke 2:21?
Circumcision in Luke 2:21 represents a key Jewish tradition that marks a male child's entry into the covenant community of Israel. It underscores the importance of obedience to God's laws and connects Jesus to his Jewish heritage.
Why was Jesus named in Luke 2:21?
Jesus was named in Luke 2:21 as part of the circumcision ceremony, fulfilling the angel's instruction given before his conception. The name 'Jesus' means 'the Lord saves,' reflecting his divine purpose as the Savior.
What does the name 'Jesus' signify in Luke 2:21?
In Luke 2:21, the name 'Jesus' signifies his role as the Savior, as it means 'the Lord saves.' This name was given by the angel, indicating Jesus' divine mission even before his birth.
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