Devine Scripture

Luke 2:33

What does Luke 2:33 mean?

A plain-English look at Luke 2:33 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Luke 2:33 means

Joseph and Mary were marveling at the things Simeon spoke concerning Jesus. Despite receiving their own divine revelations from angels, Simeon's profound, Spirit-inspired words added new layers of understanding and awe regarding their child's identity and future. Their astonishment underscores the incredible nature of Jesus' person and mission, even for those closest to Him, continually revealing the depths of God's plan.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And his father and his mother were marvelling at the things which were spoken concerning him;

KJV

King James Version · 1611

And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And his father and his mother were marvelling at the things which were spoken concerning him;

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And his father and mother were full of wonder at the things which were said about him.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

And Joseph and his mother were wondering at the things spoken concerning him,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

And his father and mother were wondering at those things which were spoken concerning him.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And his father and mother wondered at the things which were said concerning him.

Context

This verse describes the natural reaction of Joseph and Mary to Simeon's prophetic words, expressing their amazement. It follows Simeon's declarations about Jesus' universal salvation and His role for both Jews and Gentiles. This moment of wonder emphasizes the profound significance of Simeon's prophecy, which then leads to Simeon's direct address to Mary.

v.32A light for revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of thy people Israel.

v.33This passage

v.34and Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the falling and the rising of many in Israel; and for a sign which is spoken against;

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • 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 Judæa.

  • Luke 2:48

    And when they saw him, they were astonished; and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I sought thee sorrowing.

  • Isaiah 8:18

    Behold, I and the children whom Jehovah hath given me are for signs and for wonders in Israel from Jehovah of hosts, who dwelleth in mount Zion.

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