New Testament
Matthew 2:12
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, the Magi, who had come to visit the newborn Jesus, received a divine warning in a dream.
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
God warned them in a dream not to go back to Herod, so they returned to their own country by a different route.
And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the Magi, who had come to visit the newborn Jesus, received a divine warning in a dream. God instructed them not to return to King Herod, who had malicious intentions towards the child. Instead, they chose to go back to their homeland using a different route. This act of obedience highlights the importance of listening to God's guidance and acting accordingly. The Magi's decision not only protected Jesus but also demonstrated their faith and commitment to following God's direction. Their journey symbolizes the idea that sometimes, following God's path may require us to take unexpected or unconventional routes in life. It also emphasizes the significance of divine intervention in our decisions, reminding us that God is actively involved in guiding us away from danger and towards His purpose.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Matthew 2:12 to your life
This verse encourages us to be attentive to God's guidance in our lives. Just as the Magi listened to the warning in their dream, we should seek God's direction through prayer and scripture. When faced with difficult choices, we must be willing to change our plans if it means following God's will, even if it seems unconventional.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 2:12 mean?
Matthew 2:12 describes how the Magi received a warning from God in a dream not to return to King Herod after visiting Jesus. This verse highlights the importance of following divine guidance to avoid danger.
What is the significance of the Magi's dream in Matthew 2:12?
The dream serves as a divine warning that protects the Magi and Jesus from Herod's malicious intentions. It emphasizes the role of dreams as a means through which God communicates important guidance.
Why did the Magi choose a different route in Matthew 2:12?
The Magi chose a different route to return home because they were warned by God not to go back to Herod. This decision reflects their obedience to God's instruction and their commitment to protecting Jesus.
What can we learn from Matthew 2:12 about following God's guidance?
Matthew 2:12 teaches us the importance of being attentive to God's guidance in our lives. It encourages us to change our plans if necessary to align with God's will, even if it requires taking an unexpected path.

The Book of Matthew
Matthew 1: The Generation and Birth of Jesus Christ
The book begins with the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. It records the generations from Abraham to David, from David until the carrying away into Babylon, and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ, each being fourteen generations. The genealogy concludes with Jacob begetting Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.
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