Matthew 2:1

MATTHEW—NOTE ON Matthew 2:1 Bethlehem of Judea. Located about 6 miles (9.7 km) south of Jerusalem. Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem marks him as being from the tribe of Judah and from the city that produced the Davidic kings (1 Samuel 17:12; see note on Luke 2:3–4). Herod the king (Herod the Great) ruled Israel and Judah 37–4 B.C. He was appointed by Rome to be king of the Jews. He ruled firmly and at times ruthlessly. He murdered his wife, several of his own sons, and other relatives. He restored the temple in Jerusalem and built many theaters, cities, palaces, and fortresses throughout the Roman Empire. The term wise men referred to a wide range of people whose practices included astrology, dream interpretation, study of sacred writings, the pursuit of wisdom, and magic. As much as two years may have passed since the events of Matthew 1:1 (see note on 2:11).