Matthew 2:2

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

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}.

Complete Jewish Bible

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

Berean Standard Bible

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.”

American Standard Version

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

### SUMMARY
Matthew 2:2 records the profound declaration of the Magi upon their arrival in Jerusalem, as they publicly inquire about the newborn "King of the Jews." This pivotal verse encapsulates their divinely guided journey, their astute recognition of a unique celestial sign, and their ultimate purpose: to offer worship to this extraordinary monarch. It immediately sets the stage for the unfolding drama of God's revelation of His Son to the world, juxtaposed against the initial human responses of both awe and apprehension.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is the direct utterance of the Magi, following their arrival in Jerusalem as described in [Matthew 2:1](/matthew/2-1 "Matthew 2:1 - The Magi Arrive in Jerusalem"). Their question is posed publicly, and its immediate consequence is the agitation of [King Herod and all Jerusalem](/matthew/2-3 "Matthew 2:3 - Herod's Troubled Reaction") when they hear it. The Magi's quest for the "King of the Jews" serves as the catalyst for Herod's subsequent deceptive inquiries and murderous plot, forming the narrative backbone of the early chapters of Matthew concerning Jesus' infancy. This inquiry also highlights the contrast between those who actively seek and worship the Messiah (the foreign Magi) and those who, despite possessing scriptural knowledge, remain spiritually indifferent or hostile (Herod and the chief priests/scribes).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Magi were likely Persian or Babylonian astrologer-priests, highly respected for their wisdom, knowledge of the stars, and often serving as advisors to kings. Their journey from the "east" (likely Persia or Mesopotamia) indicates a significant undertaking, suggesting their profound conviction in the star's meaning. In the Roman-occupied Judea of Herod the Great, any mention of a "King of the Jews" would have been highly politically charged. Herod, an Idumean appointed by Rome, was notoriously paranoid about threats to his throne, having already executed family members and rivals. The arrival of foreign dignitaries seeking a new king would have been perceived as a direct challenge to his authority, explaining his immediate and severe reaction. The Jewish expectation of a Messiah, often understood as a political king who would liberate Israel, further intensified the volatile atmosphere.
* **Key Themes:** The verse directly contributes to several key themes in Matthew. Firstly, **Divine Revelation and Guidance** is evident in the star's role, underscoring God's active involvement in revealing His Son not just to Israel but to the Gentile world, fulfilling ancient prophecies like the [star that would come out of Jacob](/numbers/24-17 "Numbers 24:17 - Prophecy of the Star from Jacob"). Secondly, **Jesus as the "King of the Jews"** is a central Christological theme, establishing His royal lineage through David and His rightful claim to the throne of Israel, a title that would later be ironically inscribed on the cross during His crucifixion, as seen in [John 19:19](/john/19-19 "John 19:19 - The Inscription on the Cross"). Thirdly, the Magi's explicit statement, "and are come to worship him," introduces the theme of **Universal Worship**, demonstrating that true homage to Christ transcends ethnic and national boundaries, foreshadowing the global worship of the Lamb described in [Revelation 5:12](/revelation/5-12 "Revelation 5:12 - Heavenly Worship of the Lamb").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Saying (Greek, _légō'_):** This verb, G3004, means to "lay forth" or relate in words, often implying a systematic or set discourse. Here, it indicates a deliberate and public declaration by the Magi, not a casual inquiry. Their statement is a formal announcement of their purpose and the reason for their presence, carrying significant weight.
* **King (Greek, _basileús'_):** G935, refers to a sovereign or ruler. The Magi's use of "King of the Jews" is highly significant. It acknowledges Jesus' royal status, not merely as a local dignitary, but as the anticipated monarch of Israel, fulfilling messianic expectations. This title contrasts sharply with Herod's earthly kingship, pointing to a different, divine authority.
* **worship (Greek, _proskynéō'_):** G4352, literally means "to fawn or crouch to," or "to prostrate oneself in homage." It denotes an act of profound reverence, submission, 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, recognizing Him as worthy of ultimate veneration.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews?"**: The Magi's opening question is direct and public, reflecting their conviction and lack of fear. The phrase "born King of the Jews" is crucial, indicating their belief that this new king's authority is inherent by birthright, not acquired through conquest or political maneuvering. This immediately sets up a theological and political confrontation with Herod, who holds the title by Roman appointment.
* **"for we have seen his star in the east,"**: This clause provides the Magi's rationale and evidence. The particle "for" (G1063, _gár_) introduces the reason for their inquiry. The "star" (G792, _astḗr_) is presented as a specific, personal sign ("his star"), indicating a unique celestial phenomenon directly linked to the newborn king. Their observation "in the east" (G395, _anatolḗ_) refers to their homeland, where they first witnessed this remarkable sign, prompting their arduous journey.
* **"and are come to worship him."**: This final declaration reveals the ultimate purpose of their journey. Their seeking was not out of political curiosity or a desire for earthly gain, but out of profound reverence and adoration. The act of "worship" (G4352, _proskynéō_) signifies their recognition of this newborn as worthy of divine honor, setting the precedent for the universal homage due to Christ.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew employs several powerful **Literary Devices** in this verse. The **Symbolism** of the "star" is paramount, serving as a divine sign and guide, echoing Old Testament prophecies (e.g., [Numbers 24:17](/numbers/24-17 "Numbers 24:17 - The Star from Jacob")). It represents God's active revelation and guidance to those seeking Him. There is also a strong element of **Irony** present: while the religious leaders in Jerusalem, who possess the prophecies, are oblivious or indifferent, it is foreign, Gentile astrologers who are divinely led to seek and worship the true "King of the Jews." This foreshadows the broader theme in Matthew of the kingdom of God being offered to those who might seem least likely to receive it. The Magi's explicit declaration of their intent "to worship him" also serves as **Foreshadowing**, pointing to the universal recognition and adoration that Jesus will ultimately receive as the Christ, the King of kings.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 2:2 powerfully illustrates God's sovereign plan to reveal His Son to the world, transcending cultural and religious boundaries. The Magi, as Gentiles, represent the firstfruits of the nations coming to acknowledge and worship the Messiah, demonstrating that Jesus' kingship is not confined to Israel but extends to all peoples. This verse highlights the theme of divine revelation through creation (the star) and the proper human response of seeking and worship. It also subtly introduces the conflict between God's kingdom and earthly powers, as the true King is sought by humble foreigners while the reigning king is troubled and threatened.

* [Numbers 24:17](/numbers/24-17 "Prophecy of the Star from Jacob"): "I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near: a star shall come out of Jacob, and a scepter shall rise out of Israel..."
* [John 19:19](/john/19-19 "Pilate's Inscription"): "And Pilate wrote a title, and put it on the cross. And the writing was, JESUS OF NAZARETH THE KING OF THE JEWS."
* [Revelation 5:12](/revelation/5-12 "Worthy is the Lamb"): "Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The Magi's diligent pursuit of the "King of the Jews" in Matthew 2:2 serves as a profound challenge and model for believers today. Their journey, guided by a celestial sign, underscores the importance of actively seeking God's truth and responding to His revelation, whether through the clear light of His Word or the subtle promptings of His Spirit. In a world often distracted by fleeting pursuits, the Magi's single-minded devotion to finding and worshipping the newborn King calls us to re-evaluate our own priorities. Are we truly seeking Christ with such intentionality and reverence? Their willingness to travel great distances and incur significant expense for the purpose of worship reminds us that genuine adoration often requires sacrifice and commitment. Ultimately, their example invites us to move beyond mere intellectual curiosity about Jesus to a posture of humble, heartfelt worship, acknowledging Him not just as a historical figure, but as the living, reigning King worthy of our utmost devotion and submission.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "stars" or divine promptings is God using to guide me in my spiritual journey today?**
* **How does my daily life reflect a genuine "seeking" of Jesus as my King, similar to the Magi's quest?**
* **In what ways can I deepen my personal worship of Christ, moving beyond routine to profound adoration?**
* **What sacrifices, if any, am I willing to make to honor and serve Jesus as my King?**

### FAQ
**Who were the Magi, and why were they seeking the "King of the Jews"?**

Answer: The Magi were likely astrologer-priests from the East, possibly Persia or Babylon, known for their wisdom and knowledge of the stars. They were seeking the "King of the Jews" because they had observed a unique celestial phenomenon—"his star in the east"—which they interpreted as a divine sign heralding the birth of an extraordinary monarch, the long-awaited Messiah of Israel. Their understanding, possibly influenced by prophecies known in their regions (such as [Numbers 24:17](/numbers/24-17 "The Star Prophecy")), led them on this arduous journey to pay homage to this newborn king. Their quest demonstrates that God reveals Himself and His plan even to those outside the immediate covenant community of Israel.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 2:2, with the Magi's declaration of seeking the "King of the Jews" to worship Him, profoundly foreshadows the universal kingship and ultimate worship of Jesus Christ. The title "King of the Jews" points directly to Jesus' identity as the long-awaited Messiah of Israel, the Son of David, who fulfills the Old Testament prophecies of a righteous and eternal ruler (e.g., [2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12-16 "Davidic Covenant")). However, the fact that *Gentiles* are the first to recognize and worship Him immediately expands the scope of His kingship beyond ethnic Israel to encompass all nations, fulfilling the promise that all peoples would be blessed through Abraham's seed (e.g., [Genesis 12:3](/genesis/12-3 "Abrahamic Covenant")). Jesus is not merely a regional monarch; He is the cosmic King, the Lord of all creation, through whom all things were made and in whom all things hold together (e.g., [Colossians 1:15-20](/colossians/1-15-20 "Christ's Supremacy")). His journey from the manger, sought by foreign wise men, to the cross, where He was ironically proclaimed "King of the Jews" (e.g., [John 19:19](/john/19-19 "The Inscription on the Cross")), culminates in His resurrection and ascension, establishing Him as the sovereign Lord to whom every knee will one day bow and every tongue confess (e.g., [Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Christ's Exaltation")). The Magi's act of worship is a prophetic glimpse of the eternal adoration Christ receives from His redeemed people from every tribe, tongue, people, and nation (e.g., [Revelation 5:9-14](/revelation/5-9-14 "The Lamb is Worthy")).

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

Numbers 24:17

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

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

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

¶ 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

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

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

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