The Return to Nazareth is a significant event in the early life of Jesus Christ, marking the end of the Holy Family's sojourn in Egypt and their resettlement in the town of Nazareth in Galilee. This event is primarily documented in the Gospel of Matthew and the Gospel of Luke, each providing unique details that contribute to the understanding of this pivotal moment in biblical history.

Biblical Account

In the Gospel of Matthew, the return to Nazareth is described as a fulfillment of prophecy. After the visit of the Magi and the subsequent flight to Egypt to escape King Herod's massacre of the infants in Bethlehem, Joseph is instructed by an angel in a dream to return to the land of Israel. Matthew 2:19-23 states: "After Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt. 'Get up!' he said. 'Take the Child and His mother and go to the land of Israel, for those seeking the Child’s life are now dead.' So Joseph got up, took the Child and His mother, and went to the land of Israel. But when he learned that Archelaus was reigning in Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. And having been warned in a dream, he withdrew to the district of Galilee, and he went and lived in a town called Nazareth. So was fulfilled what was spoken through the prophets: 'He will be called a Nazarene.'"

The Gospel of Luke provides additional context, emphasizing the devout nature of Mary and Joseph. After fulfilling all the requirements of the Law of the Lord in Jerusalem, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. Luke 2:39-40 records: "When Jesus’ parents had done everything required by the Law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong. He was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon Him."

Theological Significance

The return to Nazareth holds deep theological significance. It underscores the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah's humble origins and His identification with the common people. The reference to Jesus being called a "Nazarene" is often understood as a fulfillment of the prophetic theme of the Messiah being despised and rejected, as Nazareth was a town of little repute (John 1:46).

Furthermore, the return to Nazareth sets the stage for Jesus' upbringing in a devout Jewish household, where He would grow in wisdom and stature, preparing for His public ministry. The choice of Nazareth, a town in Galilee, also highlights God's plan to reveal His salvation not through the centers of power and influence, but through humble and unexpected means.

Historical and Cultural Context

Nazareth, during the time of Jesus, was a small and relatively obscure village in the region of Galilee. It was not mentioned in the Old Testament, and its insignificance is noted in the New Testament when Nathanael asks, "Can anything good come from Nazareth?" (John 1:46). Despite its obscurity, Nazareth became the setting for Jesus' formative years, shaping His early life and identity.

The decision of Joseph to settle in Nazareth, rather than returning to Bethlehem or settling in Judea, was influenced by the political climate. Archelaus, known for his tyrannical rule, made Judea a dangerous place for the Holy Family. Thus, Nazareth provided a safer environment for Jesus to grow and mature.

Prophetic Fulfillment

The phrase "He will be called a Nazarene" is not a direct quotation from the Old Testament but is understood as a thematic fulfillment of the Messianic prophecies. The prophets spoke of the Messiah as a humble and unassuming figure, and Nazareth's reputation aligns with this portrayal. Additionally, some scholars suggest a connection to the Hebrew word "netzer," meaning "branch," which is used in Isaiah 11:1 to describe the Messiah as a branch from the line of Jesse.

In summary, the Return to Nazareth is a profound event that highlights God's providential care and the fulfillment of His redemptive plan through Jesus Christ. It emphasizes the humble beginnings of the Savior and sets the stage for His mission to bring salvation to all humanity.