MATTHEW 02:19-23
HOLY FAMILY RETURNS FROM EGYPT
BRIEF INTERPRETATION
Text – Matthew 2:19-23
19 When Herod had died, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt
20 and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the child’s life are dead.”
21 He rose, took the child and his mother, and went to the land of Israel.
22 But when he heard that Archelaus was ruling over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. And because he had been warned in a dream, he departed for the region of Galilee.
23 He went and dwelt in a town called Nazareth, so that what had been spoken through the prophets might be fulfilled, “He shall be called a Nazorean.”
Introduction
This passage concludes the infancy narrative with the peaceful return of the Holy Family from exile. After the death of Herod, God again guides Joseph through an angelic message, instructing him to return to Israel. Yet even this homecoming unfolds under divine protection and prudence—Joseph, aware of the danger posed by Herod’s son Archelaus, settles instead in Galilee. The family’s move to Nazareth fulfills prophecy and symbolizes the humility and hidden preparation of the Savior’s early life. Through these events, Matthew reveals God’s providence working silently but powerfully to safeguard His redemptive plan.
Historical and Jewish Context
Herod the Great’s death around 4 B.C. led to the division of his kingdom among his sons. Archelaus ruled Judea, Samaria, and Idumea with such cruelty that Rome later removed him from power. Joseph’s fear was thus justified. By divine instruction, he settled in Galilee under the rule of Herod Antipas, where the family could live in relative peace.
Nazareth, a small and insignificant village in lower Galilee, had little reputation or importance (cf. John 1:46: “Can anything good come from Nazareth?”). Yet it was here, in obscurity, that Jesus would grow “in wisdom and age and favor before God and man” (Luke 2:52). Matthew’s reference to the prophecy, “He shall be called a Nazorean,” does not quote a single verse but summarizes multiple prophetic themes. The term Nazorean may derive from netzer—the Hebrew word for “branch”—as in Isaiah 11:1, describing the Messiah as the branch from the root of Jesse. This emphasizes Jesus’ humble origins and His fulfillment of the messianic hope.
Catholic Theological Perspective
From a theological standpoint, the return from Egypt signifies restoration and new beginning. Just as Israel was called out of Egypt to form God’s covenant people, so Jesus’ return marks the start of God’s new covenant with humanity. Through obedience and faith, Joseph once more becomes the guardian of divine promise, responding promptly to God’s direction. His actions reveal the model of fatherly care rooted in faith and humility.
The choice of Nazareth as the Holy Family’s home highlights God’s preference for the lowly and the hidden. In contrast to royal Jerusalem, Nazareth becomes the cradle of divine wisdom. This “hidden life” of Christ sanctifies ordinary human experience—work, family, and daily obedience—and shows that holiness can flourish in simplicity. Theologically, it points to the mystery of the Incarnation: God dwelling among us in the ordinary rhythms of human life.
Parallels in Scripture
Exodus 4:19–20 – God tells Moses to return to Egypt, as those who sought his life are dead.
Hosea 11:1 – “Out of Egypt I called my son,” fulfilled once again in the return of Christ.
Isaiah 11:1 – “A shoot shall sprout from the stump of Jesse, and from his roots a bud shall blossom.”
Luke 2:39–40 – The family returns to Nazareth, where Jesus grows in wisdom and grace.
John 1:46 – Nathanael’s remark on the insignificance of Nazareth highlights God’s hidden ways.
Key Terms
Nazorean: Derived from Nazareth or netzer (“branch”), indicating humility and messianic fulfillment.
Divine Providence: God’s active guidance and care over history and human decisions.
Obedience of Faith: Joseph’s continued trust in divine direction despite uncertainty.
Galilee: A region symbolizing openness to the Gentiles and the universality of salvation.
Hidden Life of Jesus: The years of simplicity and sanctity that prepared Christ for His public mission.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
The Church recalls this event during the Feast of the Holy Family, celebrating the obedience, unity, and love that characterized Joseph, Mary, and Jesus. Nazareth is honored as the model of Christian family life—where work, prayer, and charity reflect divine presence. The Holy Family’s return from Egypt also foreshadows the Resurrection, a return from the shadow of death to the light of new life.
Conclusion
The return from Egypt marks the fulfillment of God’s promises and the beginning of a hidden yet holy chapter in salvation history. Through Joseph’s prudence and obedience, the Holy Family finds refuge in Nazareth, the humble town destined to become synonymous with Jesus the Savior. God’s plan unfolds not through grandeur but through quiet faithfulness, teaching that His will is revealed most clearly to those who listen and obey.
Reflection
In our own lives, God often calls us to return from “exile”—from fear, doubt, or sin—into the peace of His presence. Like Joseph, we are invited to act with courage and trust even when we cannot see the whole path ahead. Nazareth reminds us that holiness thrives in hidden faithfulness, where God’s love transforms the ordinary into sacred grace.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, You guided the Holy Family safely from Egypt to their home in Nazareth. Lead us, too, from fear to faith, from darkness to light. May our homes reflect the love and obedience of the Holy Family, and may we always listen to Your voice with trust. Grant us the grace to live in humility, simplicity, and peace. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
DETAILED INTERPRETATION
INTRODUCTION
The passage in Matthew 2:19-23 narrates the return of the Holy Family from Egypt to Israel, an event that follows their flight prompted by an angel’s warning to Joseph about King Herod’s intention to kill the infant Jesus. After Herod’s death, an angel appears again to Joseph in a dream, instructing him to return to the land of Israel because those who sought the child’s life were dead. Joseph obeys, but upon learning that Herod’s son Archelaus is ruling in Judea, he fears for their safety and settles in the district of Galilee, specifically in the town of Nazareth. This move fulfills what was spoken by the prophets, that Jesus would be called a Nazarene. The narrative underscores the divine guidance and protection of Jesus’ early life and sets the stage for his future ministry in Galilee.
This return from Egypt holds significant theological and symbolic meaning within the Gospel of Matthew. It echoes the Old Testament narrative of the Exodus, where Israel is called out of Egypt, thus positioning Jesus as a new Moses who will deliver his people. The settlement in Nazareth fulfills prophetic expectations, although the specific prophecy is not specified in the Old Testament. The term “Nazarene” may refer to a person from Nazareth or to the Hebrew word ‘nezer’, meaning “branch,” which is associated with messianic prophecies such as Isaiah 11:1. By settling in Nazareth, a place of humble origins, the narrative highlights Jesus’ solidarity with the marginalized and the simplicity of his early life. Joseph’s obedience to divine guidance is a testament to his unwavering faith and trust in God’s plan, emphasizing the divine orchestration in the life of Jesus and reminding the faithful of God’s providence and the importance of listening to His call, even in uncertain and challenging times.
Matthew 2:19-20 “After Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt and said, ‘Get up, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who were trying to take the child’s life are dead.'”
The Holy Family’s return from Egypt signifies a new exodus, with Jesus as the new Moses who will lead His people to salvation.
Theological Significance
1. Divine Protection and Guidance: The angel’s appearance to Joseph underscores God’s providence and protection over Jesus, who is the promised Messiah. The angelic message reassures Joseph that the threat from Herod has passed, allowing the Holy Family to return safely to Israel.
2. Obedience and Faith: Joseph’s prompt obedience to the angel’s command reflects his faith and trust in God’s plan. His actions mirror the obedience of the patriarchs and prophets who responded to God’s call without hesitation.
3. Fulfillment of Prophecy: The passage highlights the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, reinforcing the continuity between the Old and New Testaments. This aligns with the Catholic understanding that the New Testament is hidden in the Old, and the Old is revealed in the New (cf. Augustine’s dictum: “Novum Testamentum in Vetere latet, et in Novo Vetus patet”).
4. Role of St. Joseph: St. Joseph’s obedience to God’s commands shows his righteousness and faith. He acts promptly on the angel’s message, reflecting his crucial role as the protector and guardian of Jesus and Mary. Joseph’s actions are a model of faithful adherence to God’s will.
5. Symbolism of Egypt: Egypt, a place of refuge in times of peril (as seen in the stories of Abraham and Jacob), also represents a place of bondage and sin. The return from Egypt symbolizes liberation and the beginning of Jesus’ mission to liberate humanity from the bondage of sin.
6. Divine Timing: The angel’s message comes after Herod’s death, showing that God’s plans unfold in His perfect timing. This assures believers that God is in control of history and works all things for good (Romans 8:28).
Reflection
This passage invites us to reflect on God’s unwavering care and guidance in our lives. Just as He protected and directed the Holy Family, God watches over us and leads us through our own journeys. Joseph’s example of faith and obedience challenges us to trust in God’s plan, even when the path is uncertain.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your constant protection and guidance. Help us to trust in Your divine plan as Joseph did, responding with faith and obedience to Your call. May we always seek Your will in our lives and find comfort in Your loving care. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.
Matthew 2:21 “Then he arose, took the young Child and His mother, and came into the land of Israel.”
This event occurs after the death of King Herod, who had sought to kill the infant Jesus. The return to Israel signifies the end of their exile in Egypt, fulfilling the prophecy, “Out of Egypt I called my son” (Hosea 11:1), which Matthew cites earlier in the chapter (Mt 2:15).
This passage highlights several important themes:
1. Divine Guidance and Obedience: Joseph’s immediate response to the angel’s command shows his unwavering obedience to God’s will. This reflects the Catholic teaching on the importance of listening to and following divine guidance, as exemplified by the Holy Family. Joseph’s prompt action shows his unwavering faith and obedience to God’s commands. His trust in God’s guidance is a model of fidelity and virtue for all believers. In Catholic teaching, Joseph is honored as a righteous man who protects and provides for Mary and Jesus, reflecting the virtues of humility and diligent service (CCC 532).
2. Fulfillment of Prophecy: The return from Egypt fulfills Old Testament prophecy, underscoring the continuity between the Old and New Testaments. This alignment with prophecy is a testament to Jesus’ identity as the Messiah, a central tenet of Catholic faith. The return from Egypt signifies the fulfillment of God’s promise and prophecy, highlighting Jesus as the new Israel. Hosea 11:1 originally referred to the nation of Israel, but Matthew sees its ultimate fulfillment in Christ, who embodies the true and faithful Israelite (CCC, 529).
3. Protection and Providence: God’s protection over Jesus and His family during their time in Egypt and their safe return to Israel illustrates God’s providential care. This reassures believers of God’s constant presence and protection in their lives. This passage also emphasizes God’s providential care over Jesus. Throughout the infancy narrative, God orchestrates events to protect the Messiah, ensuring the fulfillment of His salvific plan. This reflects the Catholic understanding of divine providence, where God actively takes part in the world to bring about His purposes (CCC, 303).
4. The Holy Family’s Example: The Holy Family’s journey back to Israel can be seen as a journey of faith, trust, and reliance on God’s direction. The Church encourages families to look to the Holy Family as a model for family life, rooted in love, faith, and obedience to God’s will (CCC, 533).
Reflection
The journey of the Holy Family from Egypt back to Israel can be seen as a metaphor for the spiritual journey of every Christian. Just as Joseph, Mary, and Jesus were guided by divine intervention, so too are we called to trust in God’s plan for our lives. Joseph’s immediate response to God’s command invites us to reflect on our own willingness to follow God’s guidance in our lives. His faith and trust in divine providence serve as a powerful example of how we are called to live our faith. In our daily struggles and decisions, we are reminded to seek God’s will and to act with trust and obedience.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the example of the Holy Family, who trusted in Your divine plan and followed Your guidance with unwavering faith. Help us to be attentive to Your voice in our lives and to respond with the same obedience and trust. Protect us from all harm and guide us safely on our spiritual journey. May we always seek to fulfill Your will and bring glory to Your name. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.
Matthew 2:22 “But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. And being warned in a dream, he withdrew to the district of Galilee.”
Joseph avoided Judea and settled in Galilee after being warned in a dream. This passage highlights several key themes in Catholic biblical interpretation:
1. Divine Guidance through Dreams:
Joseph’s actions are guided by divine intervention, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God’s will. This aligns with Catholic teachings on the significance of discernment and following God’s guidance in one’s life.
2. Fear and Prudence:
Joseph’s fear of Archelaus, who was known for his cruelty, demonstrates prudence. The Catholic Church teaches that prudence is a cardinal virtue, enabling individuals to make wise decisions in the face of danger.
3. Fulfillment of Prophecy:
Joseph’s settlement in Galilee fulfills the prophecy that Jesus would be called a Nazarene (Matthew 2:23). This underscores the Catholic understanding of Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, a central theme in Catholic theology.
4. Role of St. Joseph:
St. Joseph’s protective role over the Holy Family is celebrated in Catholic tradition. His responsiveness to God’s messages through dreams is a model of faith and obedience.
Historical and Theological Context:
1. Historical Context: Archelaus was indeed a tyrant, infamous for his brutality. Historical records, such as those of the Jewish historian Flavius Josephus, corroborate the fears Joseph would have had, validating his cautious response.
2. Divine Guidance: The dream Joseph receives is one of several instances where God communicates directly with him (cf. Mt 1:20; 2:13, 19). This emphasizes the theme of divine protection and guidance, showcasing Joseph’s righteousness and obedience to God’s will, traits celebrated within Catholic tradition.
3. Significance of Galilee: Moving to Galilee, specifically Nazareth, fulfills the prophecy that the Messiah would be called a Nazarene (cf. Mt 2:23). Galilee, a region often looked down upon (cf. Jn1:46), becomes the place where Jesus would grow up and begin His ministry, indicating God’s preference for the humble and the marginalized.
Catechism References:
– God’s Protection: The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 332) mentions how angels serve God’s plan of salvation, protecting and guiding humans, as seen with Joseph’s divine messages.
– Obedience to God: Joseph’s response is a model of faithful obedience. CCC 144 outlines how faith involves submitting our will and intellect to God, emulating Joseph’s trust and compliance.
Reflection
Matthew 2:22 invites us to reflect on the importance of listening to God’s guidance in our lives. Just as Joseph was attentive to divine warnings and acted to protect his family, we too are called to be vigilant and responsive to God’s direction. This passage also reminds us of the virtue of prudence, encouraging us to make wise decisions, especially in times of uncertainty and fear.
In our lives, like Joseph, we face uncertainties and dangers that can cause fear. Joseph’s story reassures us of God’s constant guidance and protection. By remaining open to God’s direction, especially through prayer and the sacraments, we can navigate life’s challenges with faith and trust in His divine plan. Joseph’s obedient heart reminds us that our safety and future are secure when we align our actions with God’s will.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the example of St. Joseph, who faithfully followed Your guidance with unwavering trust. Help us to seek Your will in our lives and to listen attentively to Your voice, especially in moments of fear and uncertainty. May we find refuge in Your divine protection and grow in faith, trusting that You are always with us, guiding us towards the path of righteousness. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Matthew 2:23 “He went and dwelt in a town called Nazareth, so that what had been spoken through the prophets might be fulfilled, ‘He shall be called a Nazorean.’”
Matthew 2:23 narrates the return of the Holy Family from Egypt to settle in Nazareth. This move fulfills the prophecy that Jesus would be called a Nazorean. The term “Nazorean” has sparked much scholarly debate, and its significance can be interpreted through various lenses:
1. Prophetic Fulfillment:
Matthew’s Gospel often emphasizes how Jesus’ life and actions fulfill Old Testament prophecies. While there is no direct Old Testament prophecy stating the Messiah would be called a Nazorean, several explanations are offered by Catholic scholars:
– The term “Nazarene” may be connected to the Hebrew word “netzer” meaning “branch” or “shoot.” Isaiah 11:1 prophesies: “There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots.” This branch refers to the Messiah coming from David’s line (Isa 11:1).
– It may refer to Jesus being set apart and consecrated to God, like the Nazirites in Numbers 6. As St. Jerome notes, “Nazarene” can mean “holy one of God” (Num 6).
– The plural “prophets” suggests Matthew is summarizing multiple prophecies about the Messiah’s humble origins, rather than quoting a specific verse. Nazareth was an obscure village, fulfilling prophecies like Isaiah 53:2-3 about the Messiah’s lowly background.
– It may connect to prophecies about the Messiah being despised, as Nazareth was looked down upon (Jn 1:46). The early Christians were also pejoratively called “Nazarenes” (Acts 24:5).
2. Nazareth and Humility:
Nazareth was a small, insignificant village in Galilee. By highlighting Jesus as a Nazorean, Matthew underscores the humility and lowliness of Jesus’ origins, aligning with the theme of the Suffering Servant in Isaiah (Isa 53). This aligns with the broader biblical theme of God choosing the humble and lowly to fulfill His purposes.
3. Misunderstanding and Rejection:
Being from Nazareth also meant facing prejudice and misunderstanding. In John 1:46, Nathaniel famously asks, “Can anything good come from Nazareth?” This reflects the general disdain for Nazareth, and by extension, Jesus faced skepticism and rejection, which is a recurring theme in His ministry (Jn 7:52).
4. Spiritual Significance:
The title “Nazorean” also carries spiritual significance. It connects Jesus to the Nazirite vow (Num 6:1-21), a vow of separation and dedication to God. While Jesus was not a Nazirite in the strict sense, the title can symbolically represent His consecration to God’s mission.
Catholic teaching emphasizes that this verse shows how God’s plan of salvation, revealed through the prophets, was fulfilled in Jesus Christ. It shows the continuity between the Old and New Testaments.
Reflection:
The prophecy about Jesus being called a Nazorean invites us to reflect on how God often works through the unexpected and humble origins. Just as Nazareth was a seemingly insignificant place, God can use the humble and ordinary aspects of our lives for His extraordinary purposes. This challenges us to look beyond appearances and value the deeper spiritual significance in our daily lives. Just as Jesus embraced his identity as a Nazarene despite the town’s lowly reputation, we are called to humbly accept our place in God’s plan, trusting that He can work through us regardless of our background or status.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, You sent Your Son, Jesus, to dwell among us in humility and simplicity, teaching us the profound depth of Your love and grace. Help us to embrace humility and to see Your hand at work in the ordinary moments of our lives. May we always trust in Your plan and remain dedicated to following Your will, even when the path seems unclear. Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother, guide us to live lives that reflect Your love and bring glory to Your name. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
CONCLUSION
The return of the Holy Family from Egypt to Nazareth, as narrated in Matthew 2:19-23, highlights the profound themes of divine guidance, protection, and the fulfillment of prophecy. Joseph’s unwavering faith and obedience to God’s direction amidst uncertainty reflect the importance of trust and submission to God’s will. The journey of the Holy Family, guided by angelic messages, underscores God’s providential care and protection over His chosen ones, exemplifying how divine plans unfold perfectly in God’s timing. The settlement in Nazareth, a humble and seemingly insignificant town, fulfills the prophetic words that the Messiah would be called a Nazarene, symbolizing God’s preference for the humble and the marginalized, and setting the stage for Jesus’ future ministry.
This passage invites believers to reflect on their own lives, recognizing God’s constant guidance and care even in challenging times. It challenges us to emulate Joseph’s faith and obedience, trusting in God’s plan and responding promptly to His call. The humble origins of Jesus in Nazareth serve as a reminder that God often works through the ordinary and the lowly to accomplish His extraordinary purposes. As we navigate our own journeys, we are called to remain attentive to God’s voice, trusting in His providence, and embracing the humility and simplicity exemplified by the Holy Family.
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the example of the Holy Family, who trusted in Your divine plan and followed Your guidance with unwavering faith. Help us to be attentive to Your voice in our lives and to respond with the same obedience and trust. Protect us from all harm and guide us safely on our spiritual journey. May we always seek to fulfill Your will and bring glory to Your name. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.