Did Mary and Joseph Live in Bethlehem?

The story of the Nativity, as narrated in the New Testament, often centers around the idea that Mary and Joseph lived in Bethlehem during the birth of Jesus. However, a closer examination of the biblical accounts and scholarly research reveals a more nuanced picture.

The Relevance of the Magi’s Visit

It is commonly known that the wise men, or magi, visited Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus in Bethlehem after approximately 18 months. This visit is recorded in the Gospel of Matthew, stating that Jesus was about two years old at this time (Matthew 2:16). The timing of this visit suggests that Mary and Joseph were in Bethlehem for more extended periods than just a brief stay.

The Visit of the Magi and the Return to Nazareth

According to the Gospel of Luke, Joseph and Mary had returned to their home in Nazareth after fulfilling all the things prescribed by the law of the Lord (Luke 2:39). This indicates that their stay in Bethlehem was short-lived. The text mentions that the wise men arrived 1 year later, implying that Jerusalem was already aware of the birth of the Messiah.

The Birth of Jesus

Historical and scholarly research suggests a different timeline. In my analysis of the Nativity legends based on a comparative study of the canonical gospels and independent astronomical data, it is argued that the events described in Matthew Chapter 2 indeed have historical origins, taking place in the late summer of 12 BCE.

Family Reasons for Moving to Bethlehem

According to this theory, Joseph and Mary moved to Bethlehem, specifically for family reasons. The first census in Syria did not include Herod’s kingdom, which complicates the assumption that they moved because of the census. On August 25-26, 12 BCE, near Bethlehem, Mary gave birth to Jesus prematurely due to complicated circumstances. The Holy Family stayed with relatives for a short period but did not live there permanently.

Permanent Residence and the Flight to Egypt

The family then returned to Nazareth where they were originally from. Only for a year did Mary and Joseph live in the house they moved to from Nazareth. After this period, they were compelled to flee to Egypt at night due to a royal decree to slaughter the babies. In Egypt, the holy family remained for 7 years until the death of Herod in 4 BCE.

The Return to Nazareth

Joseph intended to return to Judea after Herod’s death, but due to the risks of staying in Jerusalem, they ultimately returned to Nazareth permanently. This final move took place 8 years after their initial departure.

For a more detailed explanation of these events, I have provided further analysis in my other answers on Quora. These insights shed new light on the Nativity story, reinforcing the idea that while Mary and Joseph did stay in Bethlehem, it was a short-term residence.