Luke 2:23

KJV

(As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord;)

KJV (with Strong's)

(As {G2531} it is written {G1125} in {G1722} the law {G3551} of the Lord {G2962},{G3754} Every {G3956} male {G730} that openeth {G1272} the womb {G3388} shall be called {G2564} holy {G40} to the Lord {G2962};)

Complete Jewish Bible

(as it is written in the Torah of ADONAI, "Every firstborn male is to be consecrated to ADONAI")

Berean Standard Bible

(as it is written in the Law of the Lord: “Every firstborn male shall be consecrated to the Lord”),

American Standard Version

(as it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord),

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 2:23 records the scriptural justification for Mary and Joseph's presentation of the infant Jesus at the Temple in Jerusalem, fulfilling the Mosaic Law concerning the consecration of the firstborn male. This act underscores their devout adherence to God's covenant requirements and highlights Jesus' early identification with humanity under the Law, setting the stage for his perfect obedience and ultimate fulfillment of all righteousness.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as a direct explanation and scriptural warrant for the actions described in the preceding verse, [Luke 2:22](/luke/2-22 "Luke 2:22 - Purification and Presentation"). Following Mary's ritual purification after childbirth, Joseph and Mary bring Jesus to Jerusalem. The subsequent verses, [Luke 2:24-27](/luke/2-24-27 "Luke 2:24-27 - Sacrifice and Simeon's Prophecy"), detail the offering of a sacrifice, which was a provision for the poor, and introduce Simeon, who recognizes Jesus as the Messiah. Luke's careful inclusion of this legal detail emphasizes the family's piety and Jesus' entry into the world fully within the framework of God's covenant with Israel. It also subtly prepares the reader for Jesus' later teachings on the Law and his ultimate role as its fulfiller.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The "law of the Lord" referenced here primarily refers to the regulations found in [Exodus 13:2](/exodus/13-2 "Exodus 13:2 - Consecration of the Firstborn") and [Numbers 3:13](/numbers/3-13 "Numbers 3:13 - All Firstborn are Mine"), which mandated that every firstborn male, whether human or animal, was to be consecrated to the Lord. This law originated from the Passover event, where God spared the firstborn of Israel while striking down the firstborn of Egypt, signifying His ownership and deliverance. While firstborn animals were sacrificed, firstborn sons were "redeemed" through a payment (five shekels, as per [Numbers 18:15-16](/numbers/18-15-16 "Numbers 18:15-16 - Redemption of the Firstborn")) to the priests, acknowledging God's claim. The presentation at the Temple was a public act of dedication and redemption, demonstrating faithfulness to these ancient covenant stipulations.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several key themes in Luke's Gospel and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Obedience to the Law**, showcasing Mary and Joseph as devout Israelites who meticulously followed God's commands, even concerning their unique child. This sets a precedent for Jesus' own life of perfect obedience. Secondly, the theme of the **Sanctity of the Firstborn** is central, emphasizing God's special claim on the "firstfruits" of creation, a principle rooted in the Exodus narrative where God delivered Israel as His "firstborn son" ([Exodus 4:22](/exodus/4-22 "Exodus 4:22 - Israel, God's Firstborn")). Thirdly, this act underscores **Jesus' Identification with Humanity and the Law**. Though divine, Jesus fully entered human experience, born under the Law ([Galatians 4:4](/galatians/4-4 "Galatians 4:4 - Born Under the Law")), and began his life in full compliance with its requirements, foreshadowing his role as the one who would perfectly fulfill all righteousness ([Matthew 5:17](/matthew/5-17 "Matthew 5:17 - Jesus Fulfills the Law")). Finally, it exemplifies the principle of **Dedication to God**, where the most precious and initial aspects of life are set apart for His purposes and glory.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **written (Greek, _gráphō'_):** This verb signifies the act of "engraving" or "writing," indicating a permanent and authoritative record. In this context, it emphasizes that the practice of consecrating the firstborn was not merely a custom but a divinely ordained command, formally recorded in the Mosaic Law. Luke's use of this word underscores the scriptural foundation for Mary and Joseph's actions, demonstrating their adherence to God's revealed will.
* **openeth (Greek, _dianoígō'_):** This word literally means "to open thoroughly." When applied to the womb, it specifically refers to the first birth, the child who is the first to pass through the birth canal. This highlights the unique status of the firstborn, distinguishing them from subsequent children and marking them as specially designated by God from the very beginning of a family's procreative life.
* **holy (Greek, _hágios'_):** This term denotes something "sacred," "consecrated," or "set apart" for God. It implies a special status of belonging exclusively to the Lord, often for His service or possession. For the firstborn, being called "holy to the Lord" meant they were distinct from others, under a divine claim, and subject to specific regulations (like redemption) that acknowledged God's ownership and their unique position within the covenant community.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"(As it is written in the law of the Lord,"**: This introductory clause explicitly states that the subsequent declaration is not a new idea but a direct quotation or summary of an established divine command. It grounds the actions of Mary and Joseph firmly in the Old Testament Scriptures, specifically the Pentateuch, affirming the continuity of God's covenant plan and the faithfulness of the Holy Family to it. This phrase acts as a hermeneutical key, directing the reader to the authoritative source of the practice.
* **"Every male that openeth the womb"**: This phrase precisely defines the subject of the law: the firstborn son. The idiom "openeth the womb" refers to the first child to be born to a mother, signifying the initiation of her childbearing. This specificity ensures that the law applies uniquely to the first male child, distinguishing him from any subsequent children and emphasizing his unique status as the "firstfruits" of the mother's fertility.
* **"shall be called holy to the Lord;)"**: This is the core declaration of the law. To be "called holy to the Lord" means to be designated as belonging to God, set apart for His purposes, and consecrated to Him. While not necessarily implying a priestly role for every firstborn, it signifies God's ownership and a special status within the covenant community, requiring either dedication or redemption. For Jesus, this declaration foreshadows his ultimate role as the perfectly consecrated Son, set apart for God's redemptive plan.

#### Literary Devices
Luke employs several literary devices in this verse to emphasize its significance. The most prominent is **Allusion** and direct **Quotation**, as the verse explicitly states, "As it is written in the law of the Lord," followed by a summary of the Mosaic Law. This technique lends **Authority** and **Credibility** to the narrative, demonstrating that Jesus' early life events were not arbitrary but were deeply rooted in God's historical dealings with Israel. The phrase "Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord" functions as a **Theological Statement** or **Declaration**, encapsulating a core principle of Old Covenant dedication. The use of the passive voice "shall be called" implies a divine decree or established societal recognition, rather than a human action, reinforcing the sacred nature of the firstborn's status.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 2:23 powerfully connects the early life of Jesus to the foundational principles of the Old Covenant, particularly the concept of holiness and divine ownership. The dedication of the firstborn was a tangible expression of Israel's recognition that all life, and especially the "firstfruits," belongs to God. This principle transcends mere ritual, pointing to a deeper theological truth: God's sovereignty over creation and His special claim on those He sets apart for Himself. Jesus, as the firstborn of Mary, perfectly fulfills this Old Testament type, not merely by being dedicated but by embodying the ultimate consecration to God's will. His submission to this law highlights the continuity between the Old and New Covenants, demonstrating that the God of Israel is the same God who is bringing about salvation through His Son. This act of obedience by Mary and Joseph also foreshadows Jesus' own perfect obedience to the Father throughout His life, culminating in His ultimate sacrifice.

* [Exodus 13:2](/exodus/13-2 "Exodus 13:2 - Consecration of the Firstborn")
* [Numbers 3:13](/numbers/3-13 "Numbers 3:13 - All Firstborn are Mine")
* [Leviticus 12:1-8](/leviticus/12-1-8 "Leviticus 12:1-8 - Laws of Purification After Childbirth")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke's careful inclusion of this seemingly small detail about Jesus' presentation according to the Law offers profound insights for contemporary believers. It reminds us that even the Son of God, in His humanity, entered fully into the human experience under the covenant, demonstrating perfect obedience from infancy. This challenges us to consider our own posture towards God's commands: are we diligent in seeking to understand and obey His revealed will in our lives? The principle of dedicating the "firstborn" or "firstfruits" to the Lord extends beyond ancient rituals to a call for wholehearted devotion. It prompts us to consider what "firsts" in our lives—our best time, our fresh energy, our initial resources, our primary affections—are we dedicating to God? This verse encourages a life of intentional consecration, recognizing that everything we have is ultimately His, and our willing dedication is an act of worship and trust. It also assures us that Jesus fully identified with humanity, making Him a sympathetic and perfect High Priest who understands our journey under God's righteous standards.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you called to dedicate your "firstfruits" to the Lord, rather than offering Him what is left over?**
* **How does Jesus' early obedience to the Law encourage your own commitment to living in accordance with God's will?**
* **What does it mean for you, personally, to be "holy to the Lord" in your daily life and choices?**
* **How does understanding Jesus' early identification with humanity under the Law deepen your appreciation for His redemptive work?**

### FAQ

**Why was it necessary for Jesus, the Son of God, to be presented in the Temple according to the Law?**

Answer: It was necessary for several profound reasons. Firstly, it demonstrated the faithfulness and piety of Mary and Joseph as devout Israelites, showing their adherence to God's covenant commands. Secondly, and more importantly, it underscored Jesus' full identification with humanity. Though divine, Jesus was born under the Law ([Galatians 4:4](/galatians/4-4 "Galatians 4:4 - Born Under the Law")) and perfectly fulfilled every requirement of it. His submission to these rituals from infancy foreshadowed his lifelong obedience to the Father's will and his ultimate role as the one who would perfectly fulfill all righteousness ([Matthew 3:15](/matthew/3-15 "Matthew 3:15 - To Fulfill All Righteousness")). This act also marked Jesus as part of the covenant community of Israel, through whom God's redemptive plan would unfold.

**What is the "law of the Lord" being referred to in this verse?**

Answer: The "law of the Lord" here primarily refers to the Mosaic Law concerning the consecration of the firstborn male, as recorded in [Exodus 13:2](/exodus/13-2 "Exodus 13:2 - Consecration of the Firstborn") and [Numbers 3:13](/numbers/3-13 "Numbers 3:13 - All Firstborn are Mine"). This law stipulated that every firstborn male, both human and animal, was to be "holy to the Lord" because God had spared the firstborn of Israel during the tenth plague in Egypt. While firstborn animals were sacrificed, firstborn sons were redeemed through a payment to the priests ([Numbers 18:15-16](/numbers/18-15-16 "Numbers 18:15-16 - Redemption of the Firstborn")), acknowledging God's ownership and their special status. Mary's purification rites, mentioned in [Luke 2:22](/luke/2-22 "Luke 2:22 - Mary's Purification"), were also part of the broader Mosaic Law found in [Leviticus 12](/leviticus/12 "Leviticus 12 - Laws of Purification").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 2:23, detailing Jesus' consecration as the firstborn, finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in several ways. Jesus is not merely *a* firstborn dedicated to God, but He is *the* ultimate Firstborn, the "firstborn over all creation" ([Colossians 1:15](/colossians/1-15 "Colossians 1:15 - Christ, the Firstborn of Creation")) and the "firstborn from the dead" ([Colossians 1:18](/colossians/1-18 "Colossians 1:18 - Christ, the Head of the Church")). His presentation in the Temple, in humble obedience to the Law, foreshadows His entire life of perfect submission to the Father's will, culminating in His willing sacrifice on the cross. The Old Testament law of the firstborn pointed to God's ownership and the need for redemption; Jesus, as the true Lamb of God, perfectly fulfills this by offering Himself as the once-for-all sacrifice, thereby redeeming not just the firstborn, but all who believe ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")). His consecration as "holy to the Lord" at infancy prefigures His ultimate role as the perfectly consecrated High Priest ([Hebrews 7:26](/hebrews/7-26 "Hebrews 7:26 - A Holy, Blameless High Priest")) who enters the heavenly sanctuary on our behalf. Through His perfect obedience to the Law, Jesus becomes the means by which we, too, are made holy and set apart for God, becoming part of the "church of the firstborn" ([Hebrews 12:23](/hebrews/12-23 "Hebrews 12:23 - The Church of the Firstborn")) whose names are written in heaven.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Exodus 13:2

Sanctify unto me all the firstborn, whatsoever openeth the womb among the children of Israel, [both] of man and of beast: it [is] mine.

Exodus 22:29

Thou shalt not delay [to offer] the first of thy ripe fruits, and of thy liquors: the firstborn of thy sons shalt thou give unto me.

Numbers 3:13

Because all the firstborn [are] mine; [for] on the day that I smote all the firstborn in the land of Egypt I hallowed unto me all the firstborn in Israel, both man and beast: mine shall they be: I [am] the LORD.

Exodus 13:12

That thou shalt set apart unto the LORD all that openeth the matrix, and every firstling that cometh of a beast which thou hast; the males [shall be] the LORD'S.

Exodus 13:15

And it came to pass, when Pharaoh would hardly let us go, that the LORD slew all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both the firstborn of man, and the firstborn of beast: therefore I sacrifice to the LORD all that openeth the matrix, being males; but all the firstborn of my children I redeem.

Numbers 18:15

Every thing that openeth the matrix in all flesh, which they bring unto the LORD, [whether it be] of men or beasts, shall be thine: nevertheless the firstborn of man shalt thou surely redeem, and the firstling of unclean beasts shalt thou redeem.

Exodus 34:19

All that openeth the matrix [is] mine; and every firstling among thy cattle, [whether] ox or sheep, [that is male].