TRV
Luke 2:33
Bible Versions
And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.
Yeshua's father and mother were marvelling at the things Shim`on was saying about him.
The Child’s father and mother were amazed at what was spoken about Him.
And his father and his mother were marvelling at the things which were spoken concerning him;
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Luke 1:65
And fear came on all that dwelt round about them: and all these sayings were noised abroad throughout all the hill country of Judaea. -
Luke 1:66
And all they that heard [them] laid [them] up in their hearts, saying, What manner of child shall this be! And the hand of the Lord was with him. -
Isaiah 8:18
Behold, I and the children whom the LORD hath given me [are] for signs and for wonders in Israel from the LORD of hosts, which dwelleth in mount Zion. -
Luke 2:48
And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing.
Luke 2:33 records the reaction of Joseph and Mary to the profound prophetic words spoken by Simeon concerning the infant Jesus during His presentation at the Temple in Jerusalem.
Context
This verse takes place during the traditional presentation of Jesus at the Temple, forty days after His birth, in accordance with Jewish law for purification and the dedication of the firstborn male. Here, Joseph and Mary encountered Simeon, a righteous and devout man who had been promised by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before seeing the Messiah. Simeon, guided by the Spirit, recognized Jesus and delivered a powerful prophecy, praising God and speaking about Jesus's future role. It was these specific "things which were spoken of him" – particularly Simeon's prophetic declaration in Luke 2:29-32 – that caused Joseph and Mary to marvel.
Key Themes and Messages
Linguistic Insights
The KJV word "marvelled" translates the Greek verb thaumazo (θαυμάζω), which means to wonder, be astonished, or admire. It conveys a sense of profound amazement and awe, rather than confusion or disbelief. This same Greek word is used elsewhere in the New Testament to describe people's reactions to Jesus's teachings and miracles, emphasizing the extraordinary and supernatural nature of His person and work.
Practical Application
This verse offers several insights for believers today. It reminds us that even individuals with deep faith and direct experience of God's power can still be surprised and awestruck by His ongoing work. Our journey of faith often involves a progressive understanding of God's truths, where new insights deepen our wonder and strengthen our conviction. Like Joseph and Mary, we are called to ponder and reflect on the divine confirmations we receive, allowing them to deepen our appreciation for God's wisdom and His active presence in our lives. It encourages us to remain open to how God might confirm His Word through unexpected voices or circumstances.