Matthew 2:2

Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.

Saying {G3004}, Where {G4226} is {G2076} he that is born {G5088} King {G935} of the Jews {G2453}? for {G1063} we have seen {G1492} his {G846} star {G792} in {G1722} the east {G395}, and {G2532} are come {G2064} to worship {G4352} him {G846}.

and asked, "Where is the newborn King of the Jews? For we saw his star in the east and have come to worship him."

asking, “Where is the One who has been born King of the Jews? We saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him.”

Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we saw his star in the east, and are come to worship him.

Commentary

Matthew 2:2 captures the pivotal moment when the Wise Men, or Magi, arrive in Jerusalem, announcing their quest for the newborn King of the Jews. This verse sets the stage for the dramatic unfolding of events surrounding Jesus’ early life, highlighting both divine revelation and human opposition.

Context

This verse immediately follows the arrival of the Magi in Jerusalem, having journeyed from the East. Their public inquiry about the "King of the Jews" would have been startling, especially to King Herod, who was already sensitive about his throne. The Magi were likely astrologers or astronomers from Persia or Babylon, individuals of learning and influence, whose understanding of celestial signs led them on this momentous journey. Their question reveals their profound conviction that the star they observed heralded the birth of an extraordinary monarch.

Key Themes

  • Divine Revelation and Guidance: The star served as a divine sign, guiding the Magi to the Messiah. It underscores God's active involvement in revealing His Son to the world, even to those outside of Israel, fulfilling ancient prophecies like the star that would come out of Jacob.
  • Jesus as the "King of the Jews": This title is central. It signifies Jesus' royal lineage through David and His rightful claim to the throne of Israel, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies. This title would later be ironically inscribed on the cross during His crucifixion (John 19:19), confirming His kingship even in apparent defeat.
  • The Purpose of Worship: The Magi's explicit statement, "and are come to worship him," highlights the ultimate reason for their journey. Their seeking was not merely out of curiosity or political intrigue, but out of profound reverence and adoration for the one born King. This sets a precedent for the universal worship of Christ (Revelation 5:12).
  • Universal Recognition: The fact that non-Jewish foreigners were the first to publicly acknowledge and seek the newborn King underscores the universal scope of Jesus' mission and kingship, extending beyond the boundaries of Israel.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "worship" here is proskyneō (προσκυνέω), which literally means "to prostrate oneself before" or "to kiss towards." It denotes an act of profound reverence, homage, and adoration, often reserved for divinity or a superior ruler. For the Magi to use this term for a newborn indicates their understanding of His divine significance, beyond mere earthly royalty.

Reflection and Application

Matthew 2:2 challenges believers today to actively seek Christ, just as the Magi did. Their diligent pursuit, guided by a star, teaches us to pay attention to God's leading in our lives, whether through His Word, circumstances, or spiritual insights. Furthermore, the Magi's example calls us to genuine worship, acknowledging Jesus not just as a historical figure, but as the living "King of the Jews" and Lord of all. Our response to His kingship should be one of humble adoration and submission, recognizing His supreme authority and worth.

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Cross-References

  • Numbers 24:17 (35 votes)

    I shall see him, but not now: I shall behold him, but not nigh: there shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel, and shall smite the corners of Moab, and destroy all the children of Sheth.

  • Jeremiah 23:5 (27 votes)

    Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth.

  • Revelation 22:16 (20 votes)

    I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, [and] the bright and morning star.

  • Zechariah 9:9 (12 votes)

    ¶ Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: he [is] just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass.

  • Isaiah 9:6 (11 votes)

    For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

  • Isaiah 9:7 (11 votes)

    Of the increase of [his] government and peace [there shall be] no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.

  • Isaiah 60:3 (8 votes)

    And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising.