Jesus Born Just Before Passover

At last, a new article posted again. An addition, in my not-so-modest opinion. Although I began writing this piece with some hesitation, I am now strongly confirmed in publishing it. Over the years I have read much about the timing of Jesus’ birth. From Bullinger, who wrote that Jesus’ birth coincided with the Feast of Tabernacles, to Dr. Martin, who claimed that Jesus’ birth took place on Jewish New Year’s Day (1 Tishri). I have always had great interest in both options, because I take it for granted that Jesus’ birth must in some way be related to “the appointed feasts of the LORD.” The big question, however, is: how?

When earlier this year I came across Luke 2:42 while studying the concordant interlinear, it gradually became clear to me that this verse contains the key to determining the timing of Jesus’ birth. Although linguistically it seems a somewhat difficult verse, it has now become clear to me that the translation of this verse should read as follows:

“And when He BECAME twelve years old, they went up, according to the custom of the feast.”

When I went into further study on this basis, I fell from one amazement into another. The manger, the Passover lamb, Palm Sunday, Jesus’ circumcision, the timing of Mary’s conception, and the birth of John the Baptist—all these matters fell into one ordered perspective. Although I have never read or heard from anyone that Jesus’ birth may have taken place on the 10th of Nisan (hence my hesitation), the view presented here is, to my knowledge, the only one grounded on an explicit Scriptural statement. Typology supports the whole beautifully, but it does not serve as proof per se. Nevertheless, I warmly invite everyone to read my article on this subject not only with an open mind but also critically.
See: Jesus Born Just Before Passover

I do hope, by the way, that it is clear to every visitor of my site that all my articles carry a provisional character. Even though, according to some, I may sometimes come across as rather self-assured. I write according to the light I have at a given moment on a matter. Should it turn out that I am mistaken on one or more points, I gladly welcome correction. I always hope to keep the flexibility to adjust my insights partially—or even entirely—wherever the facts compel me to do so.
Under the motto: the truth, nothing but the truth, and the whole truth.

Delen: