Luke 2:4-41 in English

⁴ And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judæa, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David;

⁵ to enrol himself with Mary, who was betrothed to him, being great with child.

⁶ And it came to pass, while they were there, the days were fulfilled that she should be delivered.

⁷ And she brought forth her firstborn son; and she wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

⁸ And there were shepherds in the same country abiding in the field, and keeping watch by night over their flock.

⁹ And an angel of the Lord stood by them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

¹⁰ And the angel said unto them, Be not afraid; for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which shall be to all the people:

¹¹ for there is born to you this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord.

¹² And this is the sign unto you: Ye shall find a babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, and lying in a manger.

¹³ And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

¹⁴ Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men in whom he is well pleased.

¹⁵ And it came to pass, when the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing that is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

¹⁶ And they came with haste, and found both Mary and Joseph, and the babe lying in the manger.

¹⁷ And when they saw it, they made known concerning the saying which was spoken to them about this child.

¹⁸ And all that heard it wondered at the things which were spoken unto them by the shepherds.

¹⁹ But Mary kept all these sayings, pondering them in her heart.

²⁰ And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, even as it was spoken unto them.

²¹ And when eight days were fulfilled for circumcising him, his name was called JESUS, which was so called by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

²² And when the days of their purification according to the law of Moses were fulfilled, they brought him up to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord

²³ (as it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord),

²⁴ and to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.

²⁵ And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and this man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Spirit was upon him.

²⁶ And it had been revealed unto him by the Holy Spirit, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.

²⁷ And he came in the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, that they might do concerning him after the custom of the law,

²⁸ then he received him into his arms, and blessed God, and said,

²⁹ Now lettest thou thy servant depart, Lord, According to thy word, in peace;

³⁰ For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,

³¹ Which thou hast prepared before the face of all peoples;

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

³³ And his father and his mother were marvelling at the things which were spoken concerning him;

³⁴ and 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;

³⁵ yea and a sword shall pierce through thine own soul; that thoughts out of many hearts may be revealed.

³⁶ And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher (she was of a great age, having lived with a husband seven years from her virginity,

³⁷ and she had been a widow even unto fourscore and four years), who departed not from the temple, worshipping with fastings and supplications night and day.

³⁸ And coming up at that very hour she gave thanks unto God, and spake of him to all them that were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem.

³⁹ And when they had accomplished all things that were according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth.

⁴⁰ And the child grew, and waxed strong, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.

⁴¹ And his parents went every year to Jerusalem at the feast of the passover.

⁴ And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judæa, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)

⁵ To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

⁶ And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

⁷ And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

⁸ And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

⁹ And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

¹⁰ And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

¹¹ For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

¹² And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

¹³ And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

¹⁴ Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

¹⁵ And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

¹⁶ And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

¹⁷ And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.

¹⁸ And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.

¹⁹ But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.

²⁰ And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

²¹ And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

²² And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord;

²³ (As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord;)

²⁴ And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.

²⁵ And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.

²⁶ And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.

²⁷ And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,

²⁸ Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,

²⁹ Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word:

³⁰ For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,

³¹ Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;

³² A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.

³³ And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.

³⁴ And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against;

³⁵ (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.

³⁶ And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity;

³⁷ And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.

³⁸ And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.

³⁹ And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth.

⁴⁰ And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.

⁴¹ Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover.

⁴ And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judæa, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)

⁵ To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

⁶ And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

⁷ And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

⁸ And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

⁹ And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

¹⁰ And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

¹¹ For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

¹² And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

¹³ And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

¹⁴ Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

¹⁵ And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

¹⁶ And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

¹⁷ And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.

¹⁸ And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.

¹⁹ But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.

²⁰ And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

²¹ And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

²² And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord;

²³ (As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord;)

²⁴ And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.

²⁵ And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.

²⁶ And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.

²⁷ And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,

²⁸ Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,

²⁹ Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word:

³⁰ For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,

³¹ Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;

³² A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.

³³ And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.

³⁴ And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against;

³⁵ (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.

³⁶ And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity;

³⁷ And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.

³⁸ And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.

³⁹ And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth.

⁴⁰ And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.

⁴¹ Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover.

⁴ And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David;

⁵ to enroll himself with Mary, who was betrothed to him, being great with child.

⁶ And it came to pass, while they were there, the days were fulfilled that she should be delivered.

⁷ And she brought forth her firstborn son; and she wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

⁸ And there were shepherds in the same country abiding in the field, and keeping watch by night over their flock.

⁹ And an angel of the Lord stood by them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

¹⁰ And the angel said unto them, Be not afraid; for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which shall be to all the people:

¹¹ for there is born to you this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

¹² And this is the sign unto you; Ye shall find a babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, and lying in a manger.

¹³ And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

¹⁴ Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men in whom he is well pleased.

¹⁵ And it came to pass, when the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing that is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

¹⁶ And they came with haste, and found both Mary and Joseph, and the babe lying in the manger.

¹⁷ And when they saw it, they made known concerning the saying which was spoken to them about this child.

¹⁸ And all that heard it wondered at the things which were spoken unto them by the shepherds.

¹⁹ But Mary kept all these sayings, pondering them in her heart.

²⁰ And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, even as it was spoken unto them.

²¹ And when eight days were fulfilled for circumcising him, his name was called JESUS, which was so called by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

²² And when the days of their purification according to the law of Moses were fulfilled, they brought him up to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord

²³ (as it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord),

²⁴ and to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.

²⁵ And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and this man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Spirit was upon him.

²⁶ And it had been revealed unto him by the Holy Spirit, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.

²⁷ And he came in the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, that they might do concerning him after the custom of the law,

²⁸ then he received him into his arms, and blessed God, and said,

²⁹ Now lettest thou thy servant depart, O Lord, According to thy word, in peace;

³⁰ For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,

³¹ Which thou hast prepared before the face of all peoples;

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

³³ And his father and his mother were marveling at the things which were spoken concerning him;

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

³⁵ yea and a sword shall pierce through thine own soul; that thoughts out of many hearts may be revealed.

³⁶ And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher (she was of a great age, having lived with a husband seven years from her virginity,

³⁷ and she had been a widow even for fourscore and four years), which departed not from the temple, worshipping with fastings and supplications night and day.

³⁸ And coming up at that very hour she gave thanks unto God, and spake of him to all them that were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem.

³⁹ And when they had accomplished all things that were according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth.

⁴⁰ And the child grew, and waxed strong, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.

⁴¹ And his parents went every year to Jerusalem at the feast of the passover.

⁴ So, because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he went up from Nazareth, the town in Galilee district where he lived, to the town of Bethlehem in Judea district. That was the town where King David grew up.

⁵ Joseph went with Mary, who was considered {whom people considered} to be his wife, who was now pregnant. They went so that they could put his name and Mary's name in the record book.

⁶ When they arrived in Bethlehem, there was no place for them to stay in the house where travelers stay. So they stayed in a cattle shed. When the time for Mary to give birth arrived, she gave birth to her first son there. She wrapped him in strips of cloth and placed him in a trough where people put food for the animals.

⁸ That night, there were some shepherds who were taking care of their sheep as usual in the fields near Bethlehem.

⁹ An angel from God appeared to them. A great light ◄from the Lord/from God► shone on them and around them. So they became very afraid.

¹⁰ But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid! I have come to tell you good news, which will make you very happy! This message is for everyone to hear.

¹¹ The message is that today a baby has been born in Bethlehem, the town where King David grew up. That baby will eventually save you from the guilt of your sins! He is the Messiah, your Lord!

¹² I will tell you how you will recognize him (OR, how you will know that what I say is true): In Bethlehem you will find a baby who has been wrapped { whose mother has wrapped him} in strips of cloth and placed in a trough where people put food for the animals.”

¹³ Suddenly a large group of angels from heaven appeared and joined the other angel. They all praised God, singing/saying,

¹⁴ “May all the angels in the highest heaven praise God! And on the earth may the people to whom God has shown his favor have peace with him!”

¹⁵ After the angels left them and returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let's go to Bethlehem to see this wonderful thing that has happened, which ◄the Lord/God► has told us about!”

¹⁶ So they went quickly. They found the place where Mary and Joseph were staying, and they saw the baby lying in the trough where people put food for the animals.

¹⁷ Then they told Mary and Joseph and others what had been told them {what the angel had told them} about this child.

¹⁸ Everyone who heard what was said by the shepherds {what the shepherds said} to them was amazed.

¹⁹ But Mary did not talk to others about what the angels said; she just kept thinking very much about it.

²⁰ The shepherds returned to their sheep. They kept praising God very much for all the things that they had heard and seen, because everything happened exactly like the angels told them.

²¹ Seven days later, when the priests circumcised the baby, his parents named him Jesus. That was the name that they were told by the angel {the angel told them} to give him before Mary became pregnant.

²² It had been written by Moses {Moses had written} long ago in a law that God gave him, that when a woman gave birth to her first son, the parents had to take him to the Temple in Jerusalem in order that they might dedicate him ◄to the Lord/to God►. So when the time came for them to do those rituals so that God would consider them pure again, Mary and Joseph took Jesus there.

²⁴ God had commanded in his laws that if the first child of a couple was a boy, his parents should offer as a sacrifice to God two turtledoves or two young pigeons. So Joseph and Mary gave the priest two birds so he could offer them.

²⁵ At that time there was an old man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. He habitually did what was pleasing to God and he obeyed God's laws. The Holy Spirit was directing him as he was waiting for God MTY to encourage the Israeli people by sending the Messiah.

²⁶ It was previously revealed by the Holy Spirit {The Holy Spirit previously revealed} to him that he would see God's promised Messiah before he died.

²⁷ When Joseph and Mary brought their baby Jesus to the Temple in order to perform the rituals that God had commanded in his laws, the Spirit led Simeon to enter the Temple courtyard, and revealed to him that Jesus was the Messiah.

²⁸ So he took Jesus up in his arms and praised God, saying,

²⁹ Lord, you promised me that I would see the one MTY who would enable you to save people of all people-groups from the guilt of their sins. He will be MET like a light that will reveal your truth to non-Jews, and he will cause people to think highly of your people, the Israeli people. Since I SYN have now seen this one that you promised to send, now let me die peacefully.

³³ His parents marveled about what Simeon said about Jesus. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary,

³⁴ “Note what I say: God has determined that because of this child, many Israeli people will turn away from God, and many others will turn to God MET. Although he will be like a sign MET to warn people, many people will oppose him.

³⁵ As a result, the evil thoughts of many people will be made evident {he will reveal the evil thoughts of many people}. Furthermore, the cruel things that they will do to him MET will be like a sword that will pierce your ◄soul/inner being►.”

³⁶ There was also in the Temple courtyard a very old woman named Anna. She was a prophetess. Her father Phanuel was a member of the tribe of Asher. After she had been married seven years, her husband died.

³⁷ After that, she lived until she was eighty-four years old, and she was still a widow. She stayed in the Temple area all the time, night and day, worshipping God. She often ◄abstained from food/fasted► as she prayed.

³⁸ While Joseph and Mary and the baby were still in the Temple, Anna came to them. She thanked God for the baby. Then she spoke about Jesus to many people who were expecting God to send the Messiah MTY to set the people of MTY Jerusalem free from their enemies.

³⁹ After Joseph and Mary had finished performing the rituals that ◄the Lord/God► required the parents of a first son to perform, they returned to their own town, Nazareth, in Galilee district.

⁴⁰ As Jesus grew up, he became strong and very wise, and God was very pleased with him.

⁴¹ Every year Jesus' parents went to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover festival.

⁴ Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to David’s city, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David,

⁵ to enroll himself with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him as wife, being pregnant.

⁶ While they were there, the day had come for her to give birth.

⁷ She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him in bands of cloth and laid him in a feeding trough, because there was no room for them in the inn.

⁸ There were shepherds in the same country staying in the field, and keeping watch by night over their flock.

⁹ Behold, an angel of the Lord stood by them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.

¹⁰ The angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be to all the people.

¹¹ For there is born to you today, in David’s city, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

¹² This is the sign to you: you will find a baby wrapped in strips of cloth, lying in a feeding trough.”

¹³ Suddenly, there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly army praising God and saying,

¹⁴ “Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace, good will toward men.”

¹⁵ When the angels went away from them into the sky, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem, now, and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.”

¹⁶ They came with haste and found both Mary and Joseph, and the baby was lying in the feeding trough.

¹⁷ When they saw it, they publicized widely the saying which was spoken to them about this child.

¹⁸ All who heard it wondered at the things which were spoken to them by the shepherds.

¹⁹ But Mary kept all these sayings, pondering them in her heart.

²⁰ The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, just as it was told them.

²¹ When eight days were fulfilled for the circumcision of the child, his name was called Jesus, which was given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

²² When the days of their purification according to the law of Moses were fulfilled, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord

²³ (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”),

²⁴ and to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.”

²⁵ Behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him.

²⁶ It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.

²⁷ He came in the Spirit into the temple. When the parents brought in the child, Jesus, that they might do concerning him according to the custom of the law,

²⁸ then he received him into his arms and blessed God, and said,

²⁹ “Now you are releasing your servant, Master, according to your word, in peace;

³⁰ for my eyes have seen your salvation,

³¹ which you have prepared before the face of all peoples;

³² a light for revelation to the nations, and the glory of your people Israel.”

³³ Joseph and his mother were marveling at the things which were spoken concerning him.

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

³⁵ Yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul, that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

³⁶ There was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher (she was of a great age, having lived with a husband seven years from her virginity,

³⁷ and she had been a widow for about eighty-four years), who didn’t depart from the temple, worshiping with fastings and petitions night and day.

³⁸ Coming up at that very hour, she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of him to all those who were looking for redemption in Jerusalem.

³⁹ When they had accomplished all things that were according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth.

⁴⁰ The child was growing, and was becoming strong in spirit, being filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon him.

⁴¹ His parents went every year to Jerusalem at the feast of the Passover.

⁴ Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to David’s city, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David,

⁵ to enroll himself with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him as wife, being pregnant.

⁶ While they were there, the day had come for her to give birth.

⁷ She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him in bands of cloth and laid him in a feeding trough, because there was no room for them in the inn.

⁸ There were shepherds in the same country staying in the field, and keeping watch by night over their flock.

⁹ Behold, an angel of the Lord stood by them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.

¹⁰ The angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be to all the people.

¹¹ For there is born to you today, in David’s city, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

¹² This is the sign to you: you will find a baby wrapped in strips of cloth, lying in a feeding trough.”

¹³ Suddenly, there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly army praising God and saying,

¹⁴ “Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace, good will toward men.”

¹⁵ When the angels went away from them into the sky, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem, now, and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.”

¹⁶ They came with haste and found both Mary and Joseph, and the baby was lying in the feeding trough.

¹⁷ When they saw it, they publicized widely the saying which was spoken to them about this child.

¹⁸ All who heard it wondered at the things which were spoken to them by the shepherds.

¹⁹ But Mary kept all these sayings, pondering them in her heart.

²⁰ The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, just as it was told them.

²¹ When eight days were fulfilled for the circumcision of the child, his name was called Jesus, which was given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

²² When the days of their purification according to the law of Moses were fulfilled, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord

²³ (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”),

²⁴ and to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.”

²⁵ Behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him.

²⁶ It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.

²⁷ He came in the Spirit into the temple. When the parents brought in the child, Jesus, that they might do concerning him according to the custom of the law,

²⁸ then he received him into his arms and blessed God, and said,

²⁹ “Now you are releasing your servant, Master, according to your word, in peace;

³⁰ for my eyes have seen your salvation,

³¹ which you have prepared before the face of all peoples;

³² a light for revelation to the nations, and the glory of your people Israel.”

³³ Joseph and his mother were marveling at the things which were spoken concerning him.

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

³⁵ Yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul, that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

³⁶ There was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher (she was of a great age, having lived with a husband seven years from her virginity,

³⁷ and she had been a widow for about eighty-four years), who didn’t depart from the temple, worshiping with fastings and petitions night and day.

³⁸ Coming up at that very hour, she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of him to all those who were looking for redemption in Jerusalem.

³⁹ When they had accomplished all things that were according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth.

⁴⁰ The child was growing, and was becoming strong in spirit, being filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon him.

⁴¹ His parents went every year to Jerusalem at the feast of the Passover.

⁴ Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to David’s city, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David,

⁵ to enrol himself with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him as wife, being pregnant.

⁶ While they were there, the day had come for her to give birth.

⁷ She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him in bands of cloth and laid him in a feeding trough, because there was no room for them in the inn.

⁸ There were shepherds in the same country staying in the field, and keeping watch by night over their flock.

⁹ Behold, an angel of the Lord stood by them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.

¹⁰ The angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be to all the people.

¹¹ For there is born to you today, in David’s city, a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord.

¹² This is the sign to you: you will find a baby wrapped in strips of cloth, lying in a feeding trough.”

¹³ Suddenly, there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly army praising God and saying,

¹⁴ “Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace, good will towards men.”

¹⁵ When the angels went away from them into the sky, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem, now, and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.”

¹⁶ They came with haste and found both Mary and Joseph, and the baby was lying in the feeding trough.

¹⁷ When they saw it, they publicised widely the saying which was spoken to them about this child.

¹⁸ All who heard it wondered at the things which were spoken to them by the shepherds.

¹⁹ But Mary kept all these sayings, pondering them in her heart.

²⁰ The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, just as it was told them.

²¹ When eight days were fulfilled for the circumcision of the child, his name was called Jesus, which was given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

²² When the days of their purification according to the law of Moses were fulfilled, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord

²³ (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”),

²⁴ and to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.”

²⁵ Behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him.

²⁶ It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.

²⁷ He came in the Spirit into the temple. When the parents brought in the child, Jesus, that they might do concerning him according to the custom of the law,

²⁸ then he received him into his arms and blessed God, and said,

²⁹ “Now you are releasing your servant, Master, according to your word, in peace;

³⁰ for my eyes have seen your salvation,

³¹ which you have prepared before the face of all peoples;

³² a light for revelation to the nations, and the glory of your people Israel.”

³³ Joseph and his mother were marvelling at the things which were spoken concerning him.

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

³⁵ Yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul, that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

³⁶ There was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher (she was of a great age, having lived with a husband seven years from her virginity,

³⁷ and she had been a widow for about eighty-four years), who didn’t depart from the temple, worshipping with fastings and petitions night and day.

³⁸ Coming up at that very hour, she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of him to all those who were looking for redemption in Jerusalem.

³⁹ When they had accomplished all things that were according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth.

⁴⁰ The child was growing, and was becoming strong in spirit, being filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon him.

⁴¹ His parents went every year to Jerusalem at the feast of the Passover.

⁴ And Joseph went up from Galilee, out of the town of Nazareth, into Judaea, to Beth-lehem, the town of David, because he was of the house and family of David,

⁵ To be put on the list with Mary, his future wife, who was about to become a mother.

⁶ And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth.

⁷ And she had her first son; and folding him in linen, she put him to rest in the place where the cattle had their food, because there was no room for them in the house.

⁸ And in the same country there were keepers of sheep in the fields, watching over their flock by night.

⁹ And an angel of the Lord came to them, and the glory of the Lord was shining round about them: and fear came on them.

¹⁰ And the angel said, Have no fear; for truly, I give you good news of great joy which will be for all the people:

¹¹ For on this day, in the town of David, a Saviour has come to birth, who is Christ the Lord.

¹² And this is the sign to you: you will see a young child folded in linen, in the place where the cattle have their food.

¹³ And suddenly there was with the angel a great band of spirits from heaven, giving praise to God, and saying,

¹⁴ Glory to God in the highest, and on the earth peace among men with whom he is well pleased.

¹⁵ And when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, the keepers of the sheep said to one another, Let us go now to Beth-lehem, and see this thing which has come about, which the Lord has made clear to us.

¹⁶ And they came quickly, and saw Mary and Joseph, and the child in the place where the cattle had their food.

¹⁷ And when they saw it, they gave them an account of the things which had been said to them about the child.

¹⁸ And all those to whose ears it came were full of wonder at the things said by the keepers of the sheep.

¹⁹ But Mary kept all these words in her heart, and gave much thought to them.

²⁰ Then the keepers of the sheep went back, giving glory and praise to God for all the things which had come to their ears and which they had seen, as it had been said to them.

²¹ And when, after eight days, the time came for his circumcision, he was named Jesus, the name which the angel had given to him before his birth.

²² And when the necessary days for making them clean by the law of Moses had come to an end, they took him to Jerusalem to give him to the Lord

²³ (As it says in the law of the Lord, Every mother's first male child is to be holy to the Lord),

²⁴ And to make an offering, as it is ordered in the law of the Lord, of two doves or other young birds.

²⁵ And there was then in Jerusalem a man whose name was Simeon; and he was an upright man, fearing God and waiting for the comfort of Israel: and the Holy Spirit was on him.

²⁶ And he had knowledge, through the Holy Spirit, that he would not see death till he had seen the Lord's Christ.

²⁷ And full of the Spirit he came into the Temple; and when the father and mother came in with the child Jesus, to do with him what was ordered by the law,

²⁸ Then he took him in his arms and gave praise to God and said,

²⁹ Now you are letting your servant go in peace, O Lord, as you have said;

³⁰ For my eyes have seen your salvation,

³¹ Which you have made ready before the face of all nations;

³² A light of revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.

³³ And his father and mother were full of wonder at the things which were said about him.

³⁴ And Simeon gave them his blessing and said to Mary, his mother, See, this child will be the cause of the downfall and the lifting up of great numbers of people in Israel, and he will be a sign against which hard words will be said;

³⁵ (And a sword will go through your heart;) so that the secret thoughts of men may come to light.

³⁶ And there was one, Anna, a woman prophet, the daughter of Phanuel, of the family of Asher (she was very old, and after seven years of married life

³⁷ She had been a widow for eighty-four years); she was in the Temple at all times, worshipping with prayers and going without food, night and day.

³⁸ And coming up at that time, she gave praise to God, talking of him to all those who were waiting for the freeing of Jerusalem.

³⁹ And when they had done all the things which were ordered by the law of the Lord, they went back to Galilee, to Nazareth, the town where they were living.

⁴⁰ And the child became tall and strong and full of wisdom, and the grace of God was on him.

⁴¹ And every year his father and mother went to Jerusalem at the feast of the Passover.

⁴ and Joseph also went up from Galilee out of the city Nazareth to Judaea, to David's city, the which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David,

⁵ to be inscribed in the census roll with Mary who was betrothed to him as his wife, she being great with child.

⁶ And it came to pass, while they were there, the days of her giving birth to her child were fulfilled,

⁷ and she brought forth her first-born son, and wrapped him up in swaddling-clothes and laid him in the manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

⁸ And there were shepherds in that country abiding without, and keeping watch by night over their flock.

⁹ And lo, an angel of the Lord was there by them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they feared with great fear.

¹⁰ And the angel said to them, Fear not, for behold, I announce to you glad tidings of great joy, which shall be to all the people;

¹¹ for to-day a Saviour has been born to you in David's city, who is Christ the Lord.

¹² And this is the sign to you: ye shall find a babe wrapped in swaddling-clothes, and lying in a manger.

¹³ And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying,

¹⁴ Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good pleasure in men.

¹⁵ And it came to pass, as the angels departed from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, Let us make our way then now as far as Bethlehem, and let us see this thing that is come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.

¹⁶ And they came with haste, and found both Mary and Joseph, and the babe lying in the manger;

¹⁷ and having seen it they made known about the country the thing which had been said to them concerning this child.

¹⁸ And all who heard it wondered at the things said to them by the shepherds.

¹⁹ But Mary kept all these things in her mind, pondering them in her heart.

²⁰ And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all things which they had heard and seen, as it had been said to them.

²¹ And when eight days were fulfilled for circumcising him, his name was called Jesus, which was the name given by the angel before he had been conceived in the womb.

²² And when the days were fulfilled for their purifying according to the law of Moses, they brought him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord

²³ (as it is written in the law of the Lord: Every male that opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord),

²⁴ and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord: A pair of turtle doves, or two young pigeons.

²⁵ And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; and this man was just and pious, awaiting the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him.

²⁶ And it was divinely communicated to him by the Holy Spirit, that he should not see death before he should see the Lord's Christ.

²⁷ And he came in the Spirit into the temple; and as the parents brought in the child Jesus that they might do for him according to the custom of the law,

²⁸ he received him into his arms, and blessed God, and said,

²⁹ Lord, now thou lettest thy bondman go, according to thy word, in peace;

³⁰ for mine eyes have seen thy salvation,

³¹ which thou hast prepared before the face of all peoples;

³² a light for revelation of the Gentiles and the glory of thy people Israel.

³³ And his father and mother wondered at the things which were said concerning him.

³⁴ And Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary his mother, Lo, this child is set for the fall and rising up of many in Israel, and for a sign spoken against;

³⁵ (and even a sword shall go through thine own soul;) so that the thoughts may be revealed from many hearts.

³⁶ And there was a prophetess, Anna, daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher, who was far advanced in years, having lived with her husband seven years from her virginity,

³⁷ and herself a widow up to eighty-four years; who did not depart from the temple, serving night and day with fastings and prayers;

³⁸ and she coming up the same hour gave praise to the Lord, and spoke of him to all those who waited for redemption in Jerusalem.

³⁹ And when they had completed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee to their own city Nazareth.

⁴⁰ And the child grew and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom, and God's grace was upon him.

⁴¹ And his parents went yearly to Jerusalem at the feast of the passover.

⁴ And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem: because he was of the house and family of David,

⁵ To be enrolled with Mary his espoused wife, who was with child.

⁶ And it came to pass, that when they were there, her days were accomplished, that she should be delivered.

⁷ And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him up in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

⁸ And there were in the same country shepherds watching, and keeping the night watches over their flock.

⁹ And behold an angel of the Lord stood by them, and the brightness of God shone round about them; and they feared with a great fear.

¹⁰ And the angel said to them: Fear not; for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, that shall be to all the people:

¹¹ For, this day, is born to you a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord, in the city of David.

¹² And this shall be a sign unto you. You shall find the infant wrapped in swaddling clothes, and laid in a manger.

¹³ And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly army, praising God, and saying:

¹⁴ Glory to God in the highest; and on earth peace to men of good will.

¹⁵ And it came to pass, after the angels departed from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another: Let us go over to Bethlehem, and let us see this word that is come to pass, which the Lord hath shewed to us.

¹⁶ And they came with haste; and they found Mary and Joseph, and the infant lying in the manger.

¹⁷ And seeing, they understood of the word that had been spoken to them concerning this child.

¹⁸ And all that heard, wondered; and at those things that were told them by the shepherds.

¹⁹ But Mary kept all these words, pondering them in her heart.

²⁰ And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God, for all the things they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

²¹ And after eight days were accomplished, that the child should be circumcised, his name was called JESUS, which was called by the angel, before he was conceived in the womb.

²² And after the days of her purification, according to the law of Moses, were accomplished, they carried him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord:

²³ As it is written in the law of the Lord: Every male opening the womb shall be called holy to the Lord:

²⁴ And to offer a sacrifice, according as it is written in the law of the Lord, a pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons:

²⁵ And behold there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel; and the Holy Ghost was in him.

²⁶ And he had received an answer from the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Christ of the Lord.

²⁷ And he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when his parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the law,

²⁸ He also took him into his arms, and blessed God, and said:

²⁹ Now thou dost dismiss thy servant, O Lord, according to thy word in peace;

³⁰ Because my eyes have seen thy salvation,

³¹ Which thou hast prepared before the face of all peoples:

³² A light to the revelation of the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.

³³ And his father and mother were wondering at those things which were spoken concerning him.

³⁴ And Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary his mother: Behold this child is set for the fall, and for the resurrection of many in Israel, and for a sign which shall be contradicted;

³⁵ And thy own soul a sword shall pierce, that, out of many hearts, thoughts may be revealed.

³⁶ And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser; she was far advanced in years, and had lived with her husband seven years from her virginity.

³⁷ And she was a widow until fourscore and four years; who departed not from the temple, by fastings and prayers serving night and day.

³⁸ Now she, at the same hour, coming in, confessed to the Lord; and spoke of him to all that looked for the redemption of Israel.

³⁹ And after they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their city Nazareth.

⁴⁰ And the child grew, and waxed strong, full of wisdom; and the grace of God was in him.

⁴¹ And his parents went every year to Jerusalem, at the solemn day of the pasch,

⁴ Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David,

⁵ to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was pregnant.

⁶ So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to bear.

⁷ And she bore her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

⁸ And shepherds were in the same country, living in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night.

⁹ And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid.

¹⁰ Then the angel said to them, “Do not fear, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people.

¹¹ For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

¹² And this will be the sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”

¹³ And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:

¹⁴ “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”

¹⁵ So it was, when the angels had departed from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go then to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.”

¹⁶ And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger.

¹⁷ And when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child.

¹⁸ And all those who heard it marveled about the things spoken by the shepherds to them.

¹⁹ But Mary treasured all these things and pondered them in her heart.

²⁰ Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was spoken to them.

²¹ And when eight days were completed, so they could circumcise Him, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.

²² Now when the days of their purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord

²³ (just as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”),

²⁴ and to offer a sacrifice according to what had been said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of doves or two young pigeons.”

²⁵ And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him.

²⁶ And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he should see the Lord's Christ.

²⁷ So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, that they might do for Him according to the custom of the law,

²⁸ he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:

²⁹ “Lord, now You are releasing Your servant in peace, According to Your word;

³⁰ For my eyes have seen Your salvation

³¹ Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples,

³² A light for a revelation to the Gentiles, And a glory to Your people Israel.”

³³ And Joseph and His mother were marveling at the things being spoken about Him.

³⁴ Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against

³⁵ (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

³⁶ Now there was one, Hannah, a prophetess, a daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity;

³⁷ and she was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.

³⁸ And coming in that instant she was giving thanks to the Lord, and was speaking about Him to all those who waited for redemption in Jerusalem.

³⁹ So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth.

⁴⁰ And the Child was growing and becoming strong in spirit, being filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.

⁴¹ And His parents traveled to Jerusalem every year to the Feast of the Passover.

⁴ So Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of Natsareth town, into Judea to the city of David, that is called Bethlehem, because he was of David's ‘house’, that is, line of descent,

⁵ to enroll himself with Mary, the woman who had been betrothed to him, who was pregnant.

⁶ So it happened that when they got there the days for her to give birth were completed;

⁷ and she gave birth to her firstborn Son, wrapped Him in pieces of cloth and laid Him in the manger, because there was no room for them in the lodging place.

⁸ Now there were shepherds in that same area, staying out in the field and keeping the nightly watches over their flock.

⁹ When wow, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.

¹⁰ The angel said to them: “Do not be afraid because listen, I am announcing the most joyful news to you, which will be to all the people!

¹¹ You see, today, in David's city, a Savior was born to you, who is Lord Christ!

¹² And this is the sign to you: you will find a Baby wrapped in pieces of cloth, lying in a manger.”

¹³ Suddenly a multitude of the heavenly army was with the angel praising God and saying,

¹⁴ “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, good will toward mankind!”

¹⁵ So when the angels went away from them into the sky the men, the shepherds, said to one another, “Hey, let's go to Bethlehem and see this event that has taken place, that the Lord made known to us!”

¹⁶ So they went in a hurry and located both Mary and Joseph, and the Baby lying in the manger.

¹⁷ And having seen they spread an exact account of the saying that had been spoken to them concerning this Child.

¹⁸ All who heard marveled at the things told them by the shepherds.

¹⁹ As for Mary, she treasured all these sayings, pondering them in her heart.

²⁰ The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God over all that they had heard and seen, just as it was told them.

²¹ When eight days were completed so as to circumcise Him, His name was indeed called JESUS, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.

²² And when the days of their purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they took Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord

²³ (just as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens a womb shall be called holy to the Lord”),

²⁴ and to offer a sacrifice according to what was specified in the Lord's Law, “a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons”.

²⁵ Well now, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; this man was righteous and devout, expectantly waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and Holy Spirit was upon him.

²⁶ (It had been revealed to him repeatedly by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death until he saw the Lord's Messiah.)

²⁷ So by the Spirit he came into the temple; and when the parents brought the Child Jesus in, to do concerning Him according to the custom of the law,

²⁸ Simeon took Him into his arms and blessed God and said:

²⁹ “Sovereign, now You can release your slave in peace, according to Your word,

³⁰ because my eyes have seen Your salvation,

³¹ which You have prepared before the face of all peoples:

³² a light for revelation to Gentiles, and the glory of Your people Israel.”

³³ And Joseph and His mother were marveling at the things being spoken concerning Him.

³⁴ Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother: “Listen, this One is appointed to bring about the fall and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that is spoken against,

³⁵ so that the reasonings of many hearts may be revealed (furthermore, a sword will pass through your own soul also).”

³⁶ Also there was a prophetess Anna, a daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher—she was of a great age, having lived with a husband seven years from her virginity

³⁷ and having been a widow for about eighty-four years—who did not depart from the temple, serving God with fastings and petitions night and day.

³⁸ Well she, having come up at that very moment, started praising the Lord, and kept on speaking of Him to all those in Jerusalem who were looking for redemption.

³⁹ When they had completed everything, according to the law of the Lord, they went back to Galilee, to their own town, Natsareth.

⁴⁰ And the Child kept growing and being strengthened in spirit, being filled with wisdom; yes, the grace of God was upon Him.

⁴¹ Now every year His parents would go to Jerusalem to the feast of the Passover;

⁴ Joseph was descended from King David, so he left Nazareth in Galilee to go to Bethlehem, the city of David, in Judea.

⁵ He went to register there, together with Mary, who was pledged in marriage to him and expecting a baby.

⁶ While they were there, the time came for her to have her baby.

⁷ She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him up in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger because the inn had no rooms left.

⁸ Nearby some shepherds were spending the night out in the fields, keeping watch over their flocks.

⁹ An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone all around them. They were scared out of their wits!

¹⁰ “Don't be afraid!” the angel told them. “I'm here to bring you good news that will make the all the people really glad.

¹¹ The Savior has been born to you today, here in David's city. He is the Messiah, the Lord.

¹² You will recognize him by this sign: you will find the child wrapped in strips of cloth and lying in a manger.”

¹³ Suddenly many heavenly beings appeared, praising God, saying,

¹⁴ “Glory to the God of heaven, and on earth peace to those with whom he is pleased!”

¹⁵ After the angels had left them and returned to heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let's go to Bethlehem and see what's happened concerning these things the Lord has told us about.”

¹⁶ They hurried there and found Mary, Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.

¹⁷ After they'd seen for themselves, they spread the news of what had happened and what they had been told about this baby.

¹⁸ All those who heard about it were amazed at what the shepherds told them.

¹⁹ But Mary was careful to remember all the things that had happened and often thought about them.

²⁰ The shepherds went back to watching their flocks, glorifying and thanking God for all that they'd heard and seen, for it was just as they'd been told.

²¹ After eight days, the time came for the baby to be circumcised, and he was named Jesus. This was the name given to him by the angel before he had even been conceived.

²² When the time of their purification according to the law of Moses was finished, Joseph and Mary took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord,

²³ as the law of the Lord states, “Every firstborn son must be dedicated to the Lord.”

²⁴ There they made a sacrifice, as God's law also states, of “a pair of turtle doves or two young pigeons.”

²⁵ Living in Jerusalem at that time was a man called Simeon. Simeon did what was good and was very devout. He was waiting expectantly for the hope of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him.

²⁶ The Holy Spirit had shown him that he would not die before he saw the Lord's Messiah.

²⁷ Following the Spirit's leading, he went to the Temple. When Jesus' parents brought in the little boy to be dedicated as required by the Law,

²⁸ Simeon took Jesus in his arms, thanked God, and said,

²⁹ “Lord and Master, now you can let your servant die in peace as you promised,

³⁰ because I have seen for myself your salvation

³¹ which you have prepared for everyone.

³² He is a light that will show you to the nations, the glory of your people Israel.”

³³ Jesus' father and mother were shocked at what Simeon said about him.

³⁴ Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Jesus' mother Mary, “This child is destined to cause many in Israel to fall and many to rise. He is a sign from God that many will reject,

³⁵ revealing what they really think. For you it will feel like a sword piercing right though you.”

³⁶ Anna the prophetess also lived in Jerusalem. She was the daughter of Phanuel of the tribe of Asher, and she was very old. She had been married for seven years,

³⁷ and then she had been widowed. She was eighty-four years old. She spent her time at the Temple in worship, fasting and praying.

³⁸ She came up to them right at that moment, and began praising God. She spoke about Jesus to all those who were looking forward to the time when God would set Jerusalem free.

³⁹ Once they had completed everything God's law required, they returned to their home town of Nazareth in Galilee.

⁴⁰ The child grew strong, and was very wise. God's blessing was with him.

⁴¹ Jesus' parents traveled to Jerusalem every year for the Passover festival.

⁴ And Ioseph also went vp from Galile out of a citie called Nazareth, into Iudea, vnto the citie of Dauid, which is called Beth-leem (because he was of the house and linage of Dauid,)

⁵ To bee taxed with Marie that was giuen him to wife, which was with childe.

⁶ And so it was, that while they were there, the daies were accomplished that shee shoulde be deliuered,

⁷ And she brought foorth her first begotten sonne, and wrapped him in swadling clothes, and laide him in a cratch, because there was no roome for them in the ynne.

⁸ And there were in the same countrey shepheards, abiding in the fielde, and keeping watch by night ouer their flocke.

⁹ And loe, the Angel of the Lord came vpon them, and the glorie of the Lord shone about them, and they were sore afraide.

¹⁰ Then the Angel saide vnto them, Be not afraid: for behold, I bring you glad tidings of great ioy, that shalbe to all the people,

¹¹ That is, that vnto you is borne this day in the citie of Dauid, a Sauiour, which is Christ the Lord.

¹² And this shalbe a signe to you, Yee shall finde the babe swadled, and laid in a cratch.

¹³ And straightway there was with the Angel a multitude of heauenly souldiers, praising God, and saying,

¹⁴ Glory be to God in the high heauens, and peace in earth, and towards men good will.

¹⁵ And it came to passe whe the Angels were gone away from them into heauen, that the shepheards sayde one to another, Let vs goe then vnto Beth-leem, and see this thing that is come to passe which the Lord hath shewed vnto vs.

¹⁶ So they came with haste, and founde both Marie and Ioseph, and the babe laid in the cratch.

¹⁷ And when they had seene it, they published abroade the thing, that was tolde them of that childe.

¹⁸ And all that heard it, wondred at ye things which were tolde them of the shepheards.

¹⁹ But Mary kept all those sayings, and pondred them in her heart.

²⁰ And the shepheardes returned glorifiyng and praising God, for all that they had heard and seene as it was spoken vnto them.

²¹ And when the eight daies were accomplished, that they shoulde circumcise the childe, his name was then called Iesus, which was named of the Angell, before he was conceiued in the wombe.

²² And when the daies of her purification after the Lawe of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Hierusalem, to present him to the Lord,

²³ (As it is written in the Lawe of the Lord, Euery man childe that first openeth ye wombe, shalbe called holy to the Lord)

²⁴ And to giue an oblation, as it is commanded in the Lawe of the Lord, a paire of turtle doues, or two yong pigeons.

²⁵ And behold, there was a man in Hierusalem, whose name was Simeon: this man was iust, and feared God, and waited for the consolation of Israel, and the holy Ghost was vpon him.

²⁶ And it was declared to him from God by the holy Ghost, that he shoulde not see death, before he had seene that Anointed of the Lord.

²⁷ And he came by the motion of the spirit into the Temple, and when the parents brought in the babe Iesus, to do for him after the custome of the Lawe,

²⁸ Then hee tooke him in his armes, and praised God, and sayd,

²⁹ Lord, nowe lettest thou thy seruaunt depart in peace, according to thy woorde,

³⁰ For mine eyes haue seene thy saluation,

³¹ Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people,

³² A light to be reueiled to the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.

³³ And Ioseph and his mother marueiled at those things, which were spoken touching him.

³⁴ And Simeon blessed them, and saide vnto Mary his mother, Beholde, this childe is appointed for the fall and rising againe of many in Israel, and for a signe which shalbe spoken against,

³⁵ (Yea and a sworde shall pearce through thy soule) that the thoughts of many heartes may be opened.

³⁶ And there was a Prophetesse, one Anna the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser, which was of a great age, after she had liued with an husband seuen yeeres from her virginitie:

³⁷ And she was widowe about foure score and foure yeeres, and went not out of the Temple, but serued God with fastings and prayers, night and day.

³⁸ She then coming at the same instant vpon them, confessed likewise the Lord, and spake of him to all that looked for redemption in Hierusalem.

³⁹ And when they had performed all thinges according to the lawe of the Lord, they returned into Galile to their owne citie Nazareth.

⁴⁰ And the childe grewe, and waxed strong in Spirit, and was filled with wisedome, and the grace of God was with him.

⁴¹ Nowe his parents went to Hierusalem euery yeere, at the feast of the Passeouer.

⁴ And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)

⁵ to be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

⁶ And so it was that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

⁷ And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

⁸ And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

⁹ And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

¹⁰ And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

¹¹ For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

¹² And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

¹³ And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

¹⁴ Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, Good will towards men.

¹⁵ And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

¹⁶ And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

¹⁷ And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.

¹⁸ And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.

¹⁹ But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.

²⁰ And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

²¹ And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

²² And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord;

²³ (as it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord;)

²⁴ and to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.

²⁵ And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.

²⁶ And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.

²⁷ And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,

²⁸ then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,

²⁹ Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart In peace, according to thy word:

³⁰ For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,

³¹ Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;

³² A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.

³³ And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.

³⁴ And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against;

³⁵ (yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.

³⁶ And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity;

³⁷ and she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.

³⁸ And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.

³⁹ And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth.

⁴⁰ And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.

⁴¹ Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover.

⁴ And Joseph also went up from Galilee out of the city of Nazareth into Judaea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David,

⁵ to be registered with Mary who had been betrothed to him, who was with child.

⁶ And it came to pass, while they were there, that the days for her delivery were completed.

⁷ And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swathing-clothes, and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

⁸ And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, and keeping watch over their flock by night.

⁹ And an angel of the Lord came to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were in great fear.

¹⁰ And the angel said to them, Fear not; for lo! I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to the whole people;

¹¹ for to you hath been born this day, in the city of David, a Saviour, who is the Christ, the Lord.

¹² And this shall be the sign to you: Ye shall find a babe wrapped in swathing-clothes, lying in a manger.

¹³ And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

¹⁴ “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men of good will!”

¹⁵ And it came to pass, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said one to another, Let us go at once to Bethlehem, and see that which hath come to pass, which the Lord hath made known to us.

¹⁶ And they came with haste, and found Mary and Joseph, and the babe lying in the manger.

¹⁷ And when they had seen it, they made known abroad what had been told them concerning this child.

¹⁸ And all who heard wondered at the things which were told them by the shepherds.

¹⁹ But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.

²⁰ And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all which they had heard and seen, as had been told them.

²¹ And when eight days were completed for him to be circumcised, his name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

²² And when the days of their purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord,

²³ as it is written in the law of the Lord: “Every first-born male shall be called holy to the Lord,”

²⁴ and to offer a sacrifice, according to what is directed in the law of the Lord: “A pair of turtle doves, or two young pigeons.”

²⁵ And lo! there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and he was a righteous and devout man, waiting for the consolation of Israel. And the Holy Spirit was upon him;

²⁶ and it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit, that he should not see death before he had seen the Christ of the Lord.

²⁷ And he came in the Spirit into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the law,

²⁸ he took him in his arms, and blessed God, and said,

²⁹ Lord! now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word;

³⁰ for mine eyes have seen thy salvation,

³¹ which thou hast prepared before the face of all the peoples;

³² a light to enlighten the gentiles, and to be the glory of thy people Israel.

³³ And his father and his mother marveled at what was spoken concerning him.

³⁴ And Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary his mother, Behold, this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that will be spoken against;—

³⁵ yea, a sword will pierce through thine own soul,—that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.

³⁶ And there was Anna, a prophetess, daughter of Phanuel: of the tribe of Asher; she was of great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity;

³⁷ and she was a widow eighty-four years old, who never left the temple, worshipping with fastings and prayers night and day.

³⁸ And she came up at this very time, and gave thanks to God, and spoke of him to all that were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem.

³⁹ And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city Nazareth.

⁴⁰ And the child grew, and waxed strong, being filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon him.

⁴¹ Now his parents used to go yearly to Jerusalem at the feast of the passover.

⁴ Amongst others Joseph went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Bethlehem, the town of David, in Judea — because he belonged to the family and house of David —

⁵ To be registered with Mary, his engaged wife, who was about to become a mother.

⁶ While they were there her time came,

⁷ and she gave birth to her first child, a son. And because there was no room for them in the inn, she swathed him around and laid him in a manger.

⁸ In that same country-side were shepherds out in the open fields, watching their flocks that night,

⁹ when an angel of the Lord suddenly stood by them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were seized with fear.

¹⁰ “Have no fear,” the angel said. “For I bring you good news of a great joy in store for all the nation.

¹¹ This day there has been born to you, in the town of David, a Saviour, who is Christ and Lord.

¹² And this will be the sign for you. You will find the infant swathed, and lying in a manger.”

¹³ Then suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly Host, praising God, and singing —

¹⁴ “glory to God on high, And on earth peace amongst those in whom he finds pleasure.”

¹⁵ Now, when the angels had left them and gone back to heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go at once to Bethlehem, and see this thing that has happened, of which the Lord has told us.”

¹⁶ So they went quickly, and found Mary and Joseph, and the infant lying in a manger;

¹⁷ and, when they saw it, they told of all that had been said to them about this child.

¹⁸ All who heard the shepherds were astonished at their story,

¹⁹ while Mary treasured up all that they said, and thought about it often in her thoughts.

²⁰ And the shepherds went back, giving glory and praise to God for all that they had heard and seen. It had all happened as they had been told.

²¹ Eight days after the birth of the child, when it was time to circumcise him, he received the name Jesus — the name given him by the angel before his conception.

²² When the period of purification of mother and child, required by the Law of Moses, came to an end, his parents took the child up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord,

²³ in compliance with the Law of the Lord that every first-born male will be dedicated to the Lord,

²⁴ and also to offer the sacrifice required by the Law of the Lord — a pair of turtle-doves or two young pigeons.

²⁵ There was at that time in Jerusalem a man named Simeon, a righteous and devout man, who lived in constant expectation of the Consolation of Israel, and under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

²⁶ It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not die until he had seen the Lord's Christ.

²⁷ Moved by the Spirit, Simeon came into the Temple Courts, and, when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him what was customary under the Law,

²⁸ Simeon himself took the child in his arms, and blessed God, and said:

²⁹ “Now, Lord, you will let your servant go, According to your word, in peace,

³⁰ for my eyes have seen the salvation

³¹ Which you have prepared in the sight of all nations —

³² A light to bring light to the Gentiles, And to be the glory of your people Israel.”

³³ While the child's father and mother were wondering at what was said about him,

³⁴ Simeon gave them his blessing, and said to Mary, the child's mother, “This child is appointed to be the cause of the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign much spoken against —

³⁵ Yes, the sword will pierce your own heart — and so the thoughts in many minds will be disclosed.”

³⁶ There was also a prophet named Hannah, a daughter of Phanuel and of the tribe of Asher. She was far advanced in years, having lived with her husband for seven years after marriage,

³⁷ and then a widow, until she had reached the age of eighty-four. She never left the Temple Courts, but, fasting and praying, worshipped God night and day.

³⁸ At that moment she came up, and began publicly to thank God and to speak about the child to all who were looking for the deliverance of Jerusalem.

³⁹ When the child's parents had done everything required by the Law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee to their own town of Nazareth.

⁴⁰ The child grew and became strong and wise, and the blessing of God was on him.

⁴¹ Every year the child's parents used to go to Jerusalem at the Passover Festival.

⁴ Among others Joseph went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Bethlehem, the town of David, in Judea — because he belonged to the family and house of David —

⁵ To be registered with Mary, his engaged wife, who was about to become a mother.

⁶ While they were there her time came,

⁷ and she gave birth to her first child, a son. And because there was no room for them in the inn, she swathed him around and laid him in a manger.

⁸ In that same country-side were shepherds out in the open fields, watching their flocks that night,

⁹ when an angel of the Lord suddenly stood by them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were seized with fear.

¹⁰ “Have no fear,” the angel said. “For I bring you good news of a great joy in store for all the nation.

¹¹ This day there has been born to you, in the town of David, a Savior, who is Christ and Lord.

¹² And this will be the sign for you. You will find the infant swathed, and lying in a manger.”

¹³ Then suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly Host, praising God, and singing —

¹⁴ “glory to God on high, And on earth peace among those in whom he finds pleasure.”

¹⁵ Now, when the angels had left them and gone back to heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go at once to Bethlehem, and see this thing that has happened, of which the Lord has told us.”

¹⁶ So they went quickly, and found Mary and Joseph, and the infant lying in a manger;

¹⁷ and, when they saw it, they told of all that had been said to them about this child.

¹⁸ All who heard the shepherds were astonished at their story,

¹⁹ while Mary treasured up all that they said, and thought about it often in her thoughts.

²⁰ And the shepherds went back, giving glory and praise to God for all that they had heard and seen. It had all happened as they had been told.

²¹ Eight days after the birth of the child, when it was time to circumcise him, he received the name Jesus — the name given him by the angel before his conception.

²² When the period of purification of mother and child, required by the Law of Moses, came to an end, his parents took the child up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord,

²³ in compliance with the Law of the Lord that every first-born male will be dedicated to the Lord,

²⁴ and also to offer the sacrifice required by the Law of the Lord — a pair of turtle-doves or two young pigeons.

²⁵ There was at that time in Jerusalem a man named Simeon, a righteous and devout man, who lived in constant expectation of the Consolation of Israel, and under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

²⁶ It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not die until he had seen the Lord's Christ.

²⁷ Moved by the Spirit, Simeon came into the Temple Courts, and, when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him what was customary under the Law,

²⁸ Simeon himself took the child in his arms, and blessed God, and said:

²⁹ “Now, Lord, you will let your servant go, According to your word, in peace,

³⁰ for my eyes have seen the salvation

³¹ Which you have prepared in the sight of all nations —

³² A light to bring light to the Gentiles, And to be the glory of your people Israel.”

³³ While the child's father and mother were wondering at what was said about him,

³⁴ Simeon gave them his blessing, and said to Mary, the child's mother, “This child is appointed to be the cause of the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign much spoken against —

³⁵ Yes, the sword will pierce your own heart — and so the thoughts in many minds will be disclosed.”

³⁶ There was also a prophet named Hannah, a daughter of Phanuel and of the tribe of Asher. She was far advanced in years, having lived with her husband for seven years after marriage,

³⁷ and then a widow, until she had reached the age of eighty-four. She never left the Temple Courts, but, fasting and praying, worshiped God night and day.

³⁸ At that moment she came up, and began publicly to thank God and to speak about the child to all who were looking for the deliverance of Jerusalem.

³⁹ When the child's parents had done everything required by the Law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee to their own town of Nazareth.

⁴⁰ The child grew and became strong and wise, and the blessing of God was on him.

⁴¹ Every year the child's parents used to go to Jerusalem at the Passover Festival.

⁴ Joseph May he add also went up from Galilee District, Circuit, out of the city of Nazareth Branch, Separated one, into Judea Praise, to David Beloved’s city, which is called Bethlehem House of Bread, because he was of the house and family of David Beloved;

⁵ to enroll himself with Mary Rebellion, who was pledged to be married to him as wife, being pregnant.

⁶ While they were there, the day had come for her to give birth.

⁷ She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a feeding trough, because there was no room for them in the inn.

⁸ There were shepherds in the same country staying in the field, and keeping watch by night over their flock.

⁹ Behold, an angel of Adonai stood by them, and the shekhinah ·manifest weighty glory and presence of God· shone around them, and they were terrified.

¹⁰ The angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be to all the people.

¹¹ For there is born to you today, in David Beloved’s city, a Savior, who is Messiah Anointed one the MarYah Master Yahweh.

¹² This is the sign to you: you will find a baby wrapped in strips of cloth, lying in a feeding trough.”

¹³ Suddenly, there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly army praising God, and saying,

¹⁴ “Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace, good will toward men.”

¹⁵ When the angels went away from them into the sky, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem House of Bread, now, and see this thing that has happened, which MarYah Master Yahweh has made known to us.”

¹⁶ They came with haste, and found both Mary Rebellion and Joseph May he add, and the baby was lying in the feeding trough.

¹⁷ When they saw it, they publicized widely the saying which was spoken to them about this child.

¹⁸ All who heard it wondered at the things which were spoken to them by the shepherds.

¹⁹ But Mary Rebellion kept all these sayings, pondering them in her heart.

²⁰ The shepherds teshuvah ·completely returned·, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, just as it was told them.

²¹ When eight days were fulfilled for the circumcision of the child, his name was called Yeshua Salvation, which was given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

²² When the time came for their purification according to the Torah ·Teaching· of Moses Drawn out were fulfilled, they brought him up to Jerusalem City of peace, to present him to MarYah Master Yahweh

²³ (as it is written in the Torah ·Teaching· of MarYah Master Yahweh, “Every firstborn male shall be consecrated holy to MarYah Master Yahweh”),

²⁴ and to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the Torah ·Teaching· of MarYah Master Yahweh, “A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.”

²⁵ Behold, there was a man in Jerusalem City of peace whose name was Simeon Hearing. This man was upright and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel God prevails, and Ruach haKodesh Spirit of the Holiness was on him.

²⁶ It had been revealed to him by Ruach haKodesh Spirit of the Holiness that he should not see death before he had seen Adonai ’s Messiah Anointed one.

²⁷ Prompted by haRuach the Spirit, he went into the temple courts; and when the parents brought in the child Yeshua Salvation to do for him what the Torah ·Teaching· required,

²⁸ then he received him into his arms, and blessed God, and said,

²⁹ “Now you are releasing your servant, Master, according to your word, in peace;

³⁰ for my eyes have seen your method of salvation,

³¹ which you have prepared before the face of all peoples;

³² a light for revelation to the nations, and the glory of your people Israel God prevails.”

³³ Joseph May he add and his mother were marveling at the things which were spoken concerning him,

³⁴ and Simeon Hearing blessed them, and said to Mary Rebellion, his mother, “Behold, this child is set for the falling and the rising of many in Israel God prevails, and for a sign which is spoken against.

³⁵ Yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul, that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

³⁶ There was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher Happy (she was of a great age, having lived with a husband seven years from her virginity,

³⁷ and she had been a widow for about eighty-four years), who didn’t depart from the temple, worshiping with fastings and petitions night and day.

³⁸ Coming up at that very hour, she gave thanks to Yahweh, and spoke of him to all those who were looking for redemption in Jerusalem City of peace.

³⁹ When they had accomplished everything required by the Torah ·Teaching· of MarYah Master Yahweh, they returned into Galilee District, Circuit, to their town of Nazareth Branch, Separated one.

⁴⁰ The child was growing, and was becoming strong in spirit, being filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon him.

⁴¹ His parents went every year to Jerusalem City of peace at the festival of the Pesac ·Passover·.

⁴ Joseph belonged to David’s family. A long time ago David grew up in the town called Bethlehem, in Judea country, but Joseph lived in a town called Nazareth, in Galilee country. So he had to get up and go south to Bethlehem, to put his name on the right list.

⁵ Joseph took Mary with him. She was his promised wife, and she was carrying a baby inside her at that time.

⁶ At Bethlehem they couldn’t find any room to stay in, so they had to sleep in the place where the animals ate their food. Then the time came for Mary to have her baby. She had her baby right there, and she wrapped him up in some strips of cloth and put him down to sleep in an animal’s feed box.

⁸ Not far away, on that same night, some men were out in the grass lands looking after their sheep.

⁹ Suddenly, an angel messenger from heaven stood there with them, and bright light from God was shining all around them, and they were very frightened.

¹⁰ But the angel said, “Don’t be frightened. I’ve got real good news for you, and good news for everyone in the world, too.

¹¹ Today a young woman had a baby boy over there in Bethlehem, in the place where David grew up. You go there and you will find him. He is wrapped up in strips of cloth and lying in an animal’s feed box. Then you will know that this message I tell you is true. He is the one that is going to save you people. He is the one God promised to send to be your leader.”

¹³ Then suddenly a big mob of other angel messengers came from heaven, and they all praised God and said,

¹⁴ “God, you are real great there in heaven. And here on the earth, your people are quiet and happy. You are real good to your people.”

¹⁵ Then the angels went back to heaven, and the men said to each other, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this baby that God just told us about.”

¹⁶ Then they got up quickly and went and found Mary and Joseph, with the baby boy in an animal’s feed box, just like the angel said.

¹⁷ After that those men went back to their sheep. They told everyone what they saw, and what God’s messenger told them. Everything happened just like he said. So they praised God and said he is great. Everyone was surprised when they heard these things, and Mary remembered them all her life and thought about them a lot.

²¹ The law of Moses said that they had to do a young man’s operation on all baby boys as soon as they were 8 days old. So they did that to him, and they gave him his name, Jesus, at that time. That’s the name God’s messenger told Mary to call him, before she started to carry that baby inside her.

²² The Jewish law is like this, a woman’s first baby boy belongs to God. And after a baby boy is born the mother can’t go into God’s ceremony house or do any of their ceremonies for the next 40 days. It is like she is not clean. Then, after 40 days, she has to go to God’s ceremony house in Jerusalem, and kill 2 pigeons and burn them there, and let the smoke go up to God. This will make her clean again for Jewish ceremonies. So Joseph and Mary went to Jerusalem at the right time to follow that law. They took baby Jesus with them.

²⁵ There was an old man in Jerusalem called Simeon. He was a good man that lived God’s way, and he was waiting for God to make the Israel people happy again. And the Holy Spirit was with him.

²⁶ Before this time the Holy Spirit told him, “You will stay alive till you see the person God will send to help the Israel people.”

²⁷ On that same day, as Joseph and Mary took Jesus to God’s ceremony house, the Holy Spirit told Simeon to go there too, so he was there when Joseph and Mary brought Jesus in.

²⁸ And Simeon took Jesus from them, and held him in his arms, and he thanked God, and said,

²⁹ “Now, God, I can die happy and quiet, just like you promised me,

³⁰ because now I can see the one you promised to send. People in every tribe will see him, and he will save them.

³² He will shine like a light for people that are not Jews, showing them new things about you, God. And he will get everyone to respect your people, the Israel nation.”

³³ Joseph and Mary heard the things Simeon said about Jesus, and they were surprised.

³⁴ Then Simeon asked God to be good to them, and he said to Mary, “This kid is going to ruin a lot of people in Israel, but he will help a lot of others. He will point people to God, but they won’t understand, and they will argue against him.

³⁵ In that way they will show everyone what they really think. And Mary, later you will be real sad. It will hurt, like somebody is stabbing you with a big knife.”

³⁶ While Joseph and Mary were talking to Simeon, a very old woman called Anna came along and saw Jesus, and she thanked God for him. She called out to all the people close by and told them about Jesus, that he was the one they were waiting for, and she said that God sent him to help the Jerusalem people. Anna’s father was Phanuel, and he belonged to the tribe called Asher. She was 84 years old. A long time before this Anna was a young married woman for 7 years, but then her husband died. After that she stayed in God’s ceremony house all the time, telling the people God’s words. She prayed all the time, in the day time and at night, and often she didn’t eat any food because she was praying.

³⁹ After that, Joseph and Mary finished doing everything their law said they had to do. Then they went back home, to Nazareth, in Galilee country.

⁴⁰ And the baby started to grow big and strong, and he got wise too. And God was good to him.

⁴¹ The Jewish people have a ceremony every year called Passover. Every year Joseph and Mary went to Jerusalem for that ceremony.

⁴ And Ioseph also ascended from Galile oute of a cite called Nazareth into Iurie: vnto the cite of David which is called Bethleem because he was of the housse and linage of David

⁵ to be taxed with Mary his spoused wyfe which was with chylde.

⁶ And it fortuned whyll they were there her tyme was come that she shuld be delyvered.

⁷ And she brought forth her fyrst begotten sonne and wrapped him in swadlynge cloothes and layed him in a manger because ther was no roume for them within in the ynne.

⁸ And ther were in the same region shepherdes abydinge in the felde and watching their flocke by nyght.

⁹ And loo: the angell of the lorde stode harde by the and the brightnes of the lorde shone rounde aboute them and they were soare afrayed.

¹⁰ But the angell sayd vnto them: Be not afrayed. For beholde I bringe you tydinges of greate ioye that shal come to all the people:

¹¹ for vnto you is borne this daye in the cite of David a saveoure which is Christ the lorde.

¹² And take this for a signe: ye hall fynde the chylde swadled and layed in a manger.

¹³ And streight waye ther was with the angell a multitude of hevenly sowdiers laudynge God and sayinge:

¹⁴ Glory to God an hye and peace on the erth: and vnto men reioysynge.

¹⁵ And it fortuned assone as the angels were gone awaye from them in to heven the shepherdes sayd one to another: let vs goo even vnto Bethleem and se this thynge that is hapened which the Lorde hath shewed vnto vs.

¹⁶ And they cam with haste and founde Mary and Ioseph and the babe layde in a manger.

¹⁷ And when they had sene it they publisshed a brode the sayinge which was tolde them of that chylde.

¹⁸ And all that hearde it wondred at those thinges which were tolde the of the shepherdes.

¹⁹ But Mary kept all thoose sayinges and pondered them in hyr hert.

²⁰ And the shepherdes retourned praysinge and laudinge God for all that they had herde and sene evyn as it was told vnto them.

²¹ And when the eyght daye was come that the chylde shuld be circucised his name was called Iesus which was named of the angell before he was conceaved in the wombe.

²² And when the tyme of their purificacion (after the lawe of Moyses) was come they brought him to Hierusalem to present hym to the Lorde

²³ (as that is written in the lawe of the Lorde: every man that fyrst openeth the matrix shalbe called holy to the Lorde)

²⁴ and to offer (as it ys sayde in the lawe of the Lorde) a payre of turtle doves or two yonge pigions.

²⁵ And beholde ther was a man in Hierusalem whose name was Simeon. And the same man was iuste and feared God and longed for the consolacion of Israel and the holy goost was in him.

²⁶ And an answer was geven him of the holy goost that he shulde not se deethe before he had sene the lordes Christ.

²⁷ And he came by inspiracion into the temple. And when the father and mother brought in the chylde Iesus to do for him after the custome of the lawe

²⁸ then toke he him vp in his armes and sayde.

²⁹ Lorde Now lettest thou thy seruaut departe in peace accordinge to thy promes.

³⁰ For myne eyes have sene the saveour sent from the

³¹ Wich thou hast prepared before the face of all people.

³² A light to lighten the gentyls and the glory of thy people Israel.

³³ And his father and mother mervelled at those thinges which were spoke of him.

³⁴ And Simeon blessed them and sayde vnto Mary his mother: beholde this chyld shalbe the fall and resurreccion of many in Israel and a signe which shalbe spoke agaynste.

³⁵ And morover the swearde shall pearce thy soule that the thoughtes of many hertes maye be opened.

³⁶ And ther was a Prophetesse one Anna the doughter of Phanuel of the tribe of Aser: which was of a greate age and had lyved with an husbande. vii. yeres from her virginite.

³⁷ And she had bene a wedowe aboute .iiii. scoore and .iiii. yere which went never oute of the temple but served God with fastinge and prayer nyght and daye.

³⁸ And the same came forth that same houre and praysed the Lorde and spake of him to all that loked for redempcion in Hierusalem.

³⁹ And assone as they had performed all thinges accordinge to the lawe of the Lorde they returned into Galile to their awne cite Nazareth.

⁴⁰ And the chylde grewe and wexed stronde in sprete and was filled with wysdome and the grace of God was with hym.

⁴¹ And his father and mother went to Hierusalem every yeare at the feeste of ester.

⁴ Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family line of David.

⁵ He went there to register along with Mary, who was engaged to him and was pregnant.

⁶ Now it came about that while they were there, the time came for her to deliver her baby.

⁷ She gave birth to a son, her firstborn child, and she wrapped him in long strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

⁸ There were shepherds in that region who were staying in the fields, guarding their flock at night.

⁹ An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear.

¹⁰ Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, because I bring you the good news that will bring great joy to all the people.

¹¹ Today a savior was born for you in the city of David! He is Christ the Lord!

¹² This is the sign that will be given to you: You will find a baby wrapped in strips of cloth and lying in a manger.”

¹³ Suddenly there was together with the angel a great, heavenly army praising God and saying,

¹⁴ “Glory to God in the highest, and may there be peace on earth among people with whom he is pleased.”

¹⁵ It came about that when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let us now go to Bethlehem, and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.”

¹⁶ They hurried there and found Mary and Joseph, and saw the baby lying in the manger.

¹⁷ After they had seen him, they made known what had been said to them about this child.

¹⁸ All who heard it were amazed at what was spoken to them by the shepherds.

¹⁹ But Mary kept thinking about all the things she had heard, treasuring them in her heart.

²⁰ The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for everything that they had heard and seen, just as it had been spoken to them.

²¹ When it was the end of the eighth day, when he was circumcised, he was named Jesus, the name he had been given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

²² When the required number of days for their purification had passed, according to the law of Moses, Joseph and Mary brought him up to the temple in Jerusalem to present him to the Lord.

²³ As it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb will be set apart to the Lord.”

²⁴ So they offered a sacrifice according to what was said in the law of the Lord, “a pair of doves or two young pigeons.”

²⁵ Behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout. He was looking for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him.

²⁶ It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ.

²⁷ Led by the Spirit, Simeon came into the temple. When the parents brought in the infant Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the law,

²⁸ he took him into his arms and praised God and he said,

²⁹ “Now let your servant depart in peace, Lord, according to your word.

³⁰ For my eyes have seen your salvation,

³¹ which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples:

³² A light for revelation to the Gentiles and glory to your people Israel.”

³³ His father and mother were amazed at what was said about him.

³⁴ Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is appointed for the downfall and rising up of many people in Israel and for a sign that is rejected—

³⁵ and a sword will pierce your own soul—so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

³⁶ A prophetess named Anna was there. She was the daughter of Phanuel from the tribe of Asher. She was very old. She had lived with her husband for seven years after her virginity,

³⁷ and was a widow for eighty-four years. She never left the temple but was serving with fastings and prayers, night and day.

³⁸ At that very hour she came near to them and began giving thanks to God and she spoke about the child to everyone who had been waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem.

³⁹ When they had finished everything they were required to do according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth.

⁴⁰ The child grew and became strong, increasing in wisdom, and the grace of God was upon him.

⁴¹ His parents went every year to Jerusalem for the Festival of the Passover.

⁴ Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to David’s city, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David,

⁵ to enroll himself with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him as wife, being pregnant.

⁶ While they were there, the day had come for her to give birth.

⁷ She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him in bands of cloth and laid him in a feeding trough, because there was no room for them in the inn.

⁸ There were shepherds in the same country staying in the field, and keeping watch by night over their flock.

⁹ Behold, an angel of the Lord stood by them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.

¹⁰ The angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be to all the people.

¹¹ For there is born to you today, in David’s city, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

¹² This is the sign to you: you will find a baby wrapped in strips of cloth, lying in a feeding trough.”

¹³ Suddenly, there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly army praising God and saying,

¹⁴ “Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace, good will toward men.”

¹⁵ When the angels went away from them into the sky, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem, now, and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.”

¹⁶ They came with haste and found both Mary and Joseph, and the baby was lying in the feeding trough.

¹⁷ When they saw it, they publicized widely the saying which was spoken to them about this child.

¹⁸ All who heard it wondered at the things which were spoken to them by the shepherds.

¹⁹ But Mary kept all these sayings, pondering them in her heart.

²⁰ The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, just as it was told them.

²¹ When eight days were fulfilled for the circumcision of the child, his name was called Jesus, which was given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

²² When the days of their purification according to the law of Moses were fulfilled, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord

²³ (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”),

²⁴ and to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.”

²⁵ Behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him.

²⁶ It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.

²⁷ He came in the Spirit into the temple. When the parents brought in the child, Jesus, that they might do concerning him according to the custom of the law,

²⁸ then he received him into his arms and blessed God, and said,

²⁹ “Now you are releasing your servant, Master, according to your word, in peace;

³⁰ for my eyes have seen your salvation,

³¹ which you have prepared before the face of all peoples;

³² a light for revelation to the nations, and the glory of your people Israel.”

³³ Joseph and his mother were marveling at the things which were spoken concerning him.

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

³⁵ Yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul, that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

³⁶ There was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher (she was of a great age, having lived with a husband seven years from her virginity,

³⁷ and she had been a widow for about eighty-four years), who didn’t depart from the temple, worshiping with fastings and petitions night and day.

³⁸ Coming up at that very hour, she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of him to all those who were looking for redemption in Jerusalem.

³⁹ When they had accomplished all things that were according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth.

⁴⁰ The child was growing, and was becoming strong in spirit, being filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon him.

⁴¹ His parents went every year to Jerusalem at the feast of the Passover.

⁴ Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to David’s city, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David,

⁵ to enrol himself with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him as wife, being pregnant.

⁶ While they were there, the day had come for her to give birth.

⁷ She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him in bands of cloth and laid him in a feeding trough, because there was no room for them in the inn.

⁸ There were shepherds in the same country staying in the field, and keeping watch by night over their flock.

⁹ Behold, an angel of the Lord stood by them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.

¹⁰ The angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be to all the people.

¹¹ For there is born to you today, in David’s city, a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord.

¹² This is the sign to you: you will find a baby wrapped in strips of cloth, lying in a feeding trough.”

¹³ Suddenly, there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly army praising God and saying,

¹⁴ “Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace, good will towards men.”

¹⁵ When the angels went away from them into the sky, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem, now, and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.”

¹⁶ They came with haste and found both Mary and Joseph, and the baby was lying in the feeding trough.

¹⁷ When they saw it, they publicised widely the saying which was spoken to them about this child.

¹⁸ All who heard it wondered at the things which were spoken to them by the shepherds.

¹⁹ But Mary kept all these sayings, pondering them in her heart.

²⁰ The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, just as it was told them.

²¹ When eight days were fulfilled for the circumcision of the child, his name was called Jesus, which was given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

²² When the days of their purification according to the law of Moses were fulfilled, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord

²³ (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”),

²⁴ and to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.”

²⁵ Behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him.

²⁶ It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.

²⁷ He came in the Spirit into the temple. When the parents brought in the child, Jesus, that they might do concerning him according to the custom of the law,

²⁸ then he received him into his arms and blessed God, and said,

²⁹ “Now you are releasing your servant, Master, according to your word, in peace;

³⁰ for my eyes have seen your salvation,

³¹ which you have prepared before the face of all peoples;

³² a light for revelation to the nations, and the glory of your people Israel.”

³³ Joseph and his mother were marvelling at the things which were spoken concerning him.

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

³⁵ Yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul, that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

³⁶ There was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher (she was of a great age, having lived with a husband seven years from her virginity,

³⁷ and she had been a widow for about eighty-four years), who didn’t depart from the temple, worshipping with fastings and petitions night and day.

³⁸ Coming up at that very hour, she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of him to all those who were looking for redemption in Jerusalem.

³⁹ When they had accomplished all things that were according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth.

⁴⁰ The child was growing, and was becoming strong in spirit, being filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon him.

⁴¹ His parents went every year to Jerusalem at the feast of the Passover.

⁴ And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David)

⁵ To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

⁶ And so it was, that while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

⁷ And she brought forth her first-born son, and wrapped him in swaddling-clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

⁸ And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

⁹ And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were in great fear.

¹⁰ And the angel said to them, Fear not: for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which shall be to all people.

¹¹ For to you is born this day, in the city of David, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

¹² And this shall be a sign to you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling-clothes, lying in a manger.

¹³ And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

¹⁴ Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will towards men.

¹⁵ And it came to pass, when the angels had departed from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even to Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known to us.

¹⁶ And they came with haste, and found Mary and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

¹⁷ And when they had seen it , they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.

¹⁸ And all they that heard it , wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.

¹⁹ But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.

²⁰ And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told to them.

²¹ And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, who was so named by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

²² And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord;

²³ (As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that is the first born of his mother shall be called holy to the Lord)

²⁴ And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtle-doves, or two young pigeons.

²⁵ And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Spirit was upon him.

²⁶ And it was revealed to him by the Holy Spirit, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ.

²⁷ And he came by the spirit into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,

²⁸ Then he took him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,

²⁹ Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word:

³⁰ For my eyes have seen thy salvation,

³¹ Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;

³² A light to enlighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.

³³ And Joseph and his mother marveled at those things which were spoken concerning him.

³⁴ And Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against;

³⁵ (And a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.

³⁶ And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher: she was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity;

³⁷ And she was a widow of about eighty four years, who departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.

³⁸ And she coming in that instant, gave thanks likewise to the Lord, and spoke of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.

³⁹ And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth.

⁴⁰ And the child grew, and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.

⁴¹ Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover.

⁴ Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to David’s city, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David,

⁵ to enroll himself with Miriam, who was pledged to be married to him as wife, being pregnant.

⁶ While they were there, the day had come for her to give birth.

⁷ She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him in bands of cloth and laid him in a feeding trough, because there was no room for them in the inn.

⁸ There were shepherds in the same country staying in the field, and keeping watch by night over their flock.

⁹ Behold, an angel of the Lord stood by them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.

¹⁰ The angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be to all the people.

¹¹ For there is born to you today, in David’s city, a Savior, who is Messiah the Lord.

¹² This is the sign to you: you will find a baby wrapped in strips of cloth, lying in a feeding trough.”

¹³ Suddenly, there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly army praising God and saying,

¹⁴ “Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace, good will toward men.”

¹⁵ When the angels went away from them into the sky, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem, now, and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.”

¹⁶ They came with haste and found both Miriam and Joseph, and the baby was lying in the feeding trough.

¹⁷ When they saw it, they publicized widely the saying which was spoken to them about this child.

¹⁸ All who heard it wondered at the things which were spoken to them by the shepherds.

¹⁹ But Miriam kept all these sayings, pondering them in her heart.

²⁰ The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, just as it was told them.

²¹ When eight days were fulfilled for the circumcision of the child, his name was called Yeshua, which was given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

²² When the days of their purification according to the Torah of Moses were fulfilled, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord

²³ (as it is written in the Torah of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”),

²⁴ and to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the Torah of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.”

²⁵ Behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him.

²⁶ It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah.

²⁷ He came in the Spirit into the temple. When the parents brought in the child, Yeshua, that they might do concerning him according to the requirement of the Torah,

²⁸ then he received him into his arms and blessed God, and said,

²⁹ “Now you are releasing your servant, Master, according to your word, in peace;

³⁰ for my eyes have seen your salvation,

³¹ which you have prepared before the face of all peoples;

³² a light for revelation to the nations, and the glory of your people Israel.”

³³ Joseph and his mother were marveling at the things which were spoken concerning him.

³⁴ Simeon blessed them, and said to Miriam, his mother, “Behold, this child is appointed for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which is spoken against.

³⁵ Yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul, that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

³⁶ There was one Hannah, a prophetess, the daughter of Penuel, of the tribe of Asher (she was of a great age, having lived with a husband seven years from her virginity,

³⁷ and she had been a widow for about eighty-four years), who didn’t depart from the temple, worshiping with fastings and petitions night and day.

³⁸ Coming up at that very hour, she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of him to all those who were looking for redemption in Jerusalem.

³⁹ When they had accomplished all things that were according to the Torah of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth.

⁴⁰ The child was growing, and was becoming strong in spirit, being filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon him.

⁴¹ His parents went every year to Jerusalem at the feast of the Passover.

⁴ Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to David’s city, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David,

⁵ to enrol himself with Miriam, who was pledged to be married to him as wife, being pregnant.

⁶ While they were there, the day had come for her to give birth.

⁷ She gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him in bands of cloth and laid him in a feeding trough, because there was no room for them in the inn.

⁸ There were shepherds in the same country staying in the field, and keeping watch by night over their flock.

⁹ Behold, an angel of the Lord stood by them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.

¹⁰ The angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be to all the people.

¹¹ For there is born to you today, in David’s city, a Saviour, who is Messiah the Lord.

¹² This is the sign to you: you will find a baby wrapped in strips of cloth, lying in a feeding trough.”

¹³ Suddenly, there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly army praising God and saying,

¹⁴ “Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace, good will towards men.”

¹⁵ When the angels went away from them into the sky, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem, now, and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.”

¹⁶ They came with haste and found both Miriam and Joseph, and the baby was lying in the feeding trough.

¹⁷ When they saw it, they publicised widely the saying which was spoken to them about this child.

¹⁸ All who heard it wondered at the things which were spoken to them by the shepherds.

¹⁹ But Miriam kept all these sayings, pondering them in her heart.

²⁰ The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, just as it was told them.

²¹ When eight days were fulfilled for the circumcision of the child, his name was called Yeshua, which was given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

²² When the days of their purification according to the Torah of Moses were fulfilled, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord

²³ (as it is written in the Torah of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”),

²⁴ and to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the Torah of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.”

²⁵ Behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him.

²⁶ It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah.

²⁷ He came in the Spirit into the temple. When the parents brought in the child, Yeshua, that they might do concerning him according to the requirement of the Torah,

²⁸ then he received him into his arms and blessed God, and said,

²⁹ “Now you are releasing your servant, Master, according to your word, in peace;

³⁰ for my eyes have seen your salvation,

³¹ which you have prepared before the face of all peoples;

³² a light for revelation to the nations, and the glory of your people Israel.”

³³ Joseph and his mother were marvelling at the things which were spoken concerning him.

³⁴ Simeon blessed them, and said to Miriam, his mother, “Behold, this child is appointed for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which is spoken against.

³⁵ Yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul, that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

³⁶ There was one Hannah, a prophetess, the daughter of Penuel, of the tribe of Asher (she was of a great age, having lived with a husband seven years from her virginity,

³⁷ and she had been a widow for about eighty-four years), who didn’t depart from the temple, worshipping with fastings and petitions night and day.

³⁸ Coming up at that very hour, she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of him to all those who were looking for redemption in Jerusalem.

³⁹ When they had accomplished all things that were according to the Torah of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth.

⁴⁰ The child was growing, and was becoming strong in spirit, being filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon him.

⁴¹ His parents went every year to Jerusalem at the feast of the Passover.

⁴ And Joseph went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, into Judea, into a city of David, that is called Bethlehem, for that he was of the house and of the meine of David,

⁵ that he should acknowledge with Mary, his wife, that was wedded to him, and was great with child.

⁶ And it was done, while they were there, the days were fulfilled, that she should bear child.

⁷ And she bare her first-born son, and wrapped him in ‘clothes, and laid him in a cratch, for there was no place to him in no chamber.

⁸ And shepherds were in the same country, waking and keeping the watches of the night on their flock.

⁹ And lo! the angel of the Lord stood beside them, and the clearness of God shined about them; and they dreaded with great dread.

¹⁰ And the angel said to them, Do not ye dread; for lo! I preach to you a great joy, that shall be to all people.

¹¹ For a Saviour is born today to you, that is Christ the Lord, in the city of David.

¹² And this is a token to you; ye shall find a young child wrapped in ‘clothes, and laid in a cratch.

¹³ And suddenly there was made with the angel a multitude of heavenly knighthood, praising God, and saying,

¹⁴ Glory be in the highest things to God, and in earth peace to men of good will.

¹⁵ And it was done, as the angels passed away from them into heaven, the shepherds spake together, and said, Go we over to Bethlehem, and see we this word that is made, which the Lord hath made, and showed to us.

¹⁶ And they hieing came, and found Mary and Joseph, and the young child laid in a cratch.

¹⁷ And they seeing, knew of the word that was said to them of this child.

¹⁸ And all men that heard wondered, and of these things that were said to them of the shepherds.

¹⁹ But Mary kept all these words, bearing together in her heart.

²⁰ And the shepherds turned again, glorifying and praising God in all things that they had heard and seen, as it was said to them.

²¹ And after that eight days were ended, that the child should be circumcised, his name was called Jesus, which was called of the angel, before that he was conceived in the womb.

²² And after that the days of the purification of Mary were fulfilled, after Moses’ law, they took him into Jerusalem, to offer him to the Lord,

²³ as it is written in the law of the Lord, For every male-kind opening the womb, shall be called holy to the Lord;

²⁴ and that they shall give an offering, after that it is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtles, or two culver birds.

²⁵ And lo! a man was in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and this man was just, and virtuous or dread-full, and abode the comfort of Israel; and the Holy Ghost was in him.

²⁶ And he had taken an answer of the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, but he saw first the Christ of the Lord.

²⁷ And he came in Spirit into the temple. And when his father and mother led in the child Jesus to do after the custom of the law for him,

²⁸ he took him into his arms, and blessed God, and said,

²⁹ Lord, now thou leavest thy servant after thy word in peace;

³⁰ for mine eyes have seen thine health,

³¹ which thou hast made ready before the face of all peoples;

³² light to the showing of heathen men, and glory of thy people Israel.

³³ And his father and his mother were wondering on these things, that were said of him.

³⁴ And Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary, his mother, Lo! this is set into the falling down and into the rising again of many men in Israel, and into a token, to whom it shall be against-said.

³⁵ And a sword shall pass through thine own soul, that the thoughts be showed of many hearts.

³⁶ And Anna was a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the lineage of Aser. And she had gone forth in many days, and had lived with her husband seven years from her maidenhood.

³⁷ And this was a widow to fourscore years and four; and she departed not from the temple, but served God night and day in fastings and prayers.

³⁸ And this came upon them in that hour, and acknowledged to the Lord, and spake of him to all that abided the redemption of Israel.

³⁹ And as they had full or perfectly done all things, after the law of the Lord, they turned again in to Galilee, in to their city Nazareth.

⁴⁰ And the child waxed, and was comforted, full of wisdom; and the grace of God was in him.

⁴¹ And his father and mother went each year into Jerusalem, in the solemn day of pask.

⁴ And Joseph went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, into Judea, into a city of David, that is called Bethlehem, for that he was of the house and of the family of David,

⁵ (so) that he should acknowledge with Mary, his wife, that was wedded to him, and was great with child.

⁶ And it was done, while they were there, the days were fulfilled, that she should bear (the) child.

⁷ And she bare her first-born son, and wrapped him in ‘clothes, and laid him in a cratch, for there was no place to him in no chamber. (And she bare her first-born son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a feed-trough, for there was no place for him in any room.)

⁸ And shepherds were in the same country, waking and keeping the watches of the night on their flock. (And shepherds were there in the countryside, awake and keeping the night watch over their flocks.)

⁹ And lo! the angel of the Lord stood beside them, and the clearness of God shined about them; and they dreaded with great dread. (And behold! the angel of the Lord stood beside them, and the glory of God shone about them; and they feared with a great fear.)

¹⁰ And the angel said to them, Do not ye dread; for lo! I preach to you a great joy, that shall be to all people. (And the angel said to them, Do not fear; for behold! I preach to you a great joy, that shall be for all people.)

¹¹ For a Saviour is born today to you, that is Christ the Lord (or who is the Messiah the Lord), in the city of David.

¹² And this is a token to you; ye shall find a young child wrapped in ‘clothes, and laid in a cratch. (And this is a sign for you; ye shall find a young child wrapped in swaddling clothes, and laid in a feed-trough.)

¹³ And suddenly there was made with the angel a multitude of heavenly knighthood, praising God, and saying, (And suddenly there was made with the angel a multitude of heavenly host, praising God, and saying,)

¹⁴ Glory be in the highest things to God, and in earth peace to men of good will. (Glory be to God in the highest place, and on earth peace to men of good will.)

¹⁵ And it was done, as the angels passed away from them into heaven, the shepherds spake together, and said, Go we over to Bethlehem, and see we this word that is made, which the Lord hath made, and showed to us.

¹⁶ And they hieing came, and found Mary and Joseph, and the young child laid in a cratch (or and the young child laid in a feed-trough).

¹⁷ And they seeing, knew of the word that was said to them of this child.

¹⁸ And all men that heard wondered, and of these things that were said to them of the shepherds. (And everyone who heard about it, wondered about these things that were told to them by the shepherds.)

¹⁹ But Mary kept all these words, bearing (them) together in her heart.

²⁰ And the shepherds turned again, glorifying and praising God in all things that they had heard and seen, as it was said to them. (And the shepherds returned home, glorifying and praising God for all the things which they had heard and seen, as it was said to them.)

²¹ And after that eight days were ended, that the child should be circumcised, his name was called Jesus, which (name he) was called of the angel (or which name he was called by the angel), before that he was conceived in the womb.

²² And after that the days of the purification of Mary were fulfilled, after Moses’ law, they took him into Jerusalem, to offer him to the Lord,

²³ as it is written in the law of the Lord, For every male-kind opening the womb, shall be called holy to the Lord;

²⁴ and that they shall give an offering, after that it is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtles, or two culver birds, (or A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons).

²⁵ And lo! a man was in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and this man was just, and virtuous or dread-full, and abode the comfort of Israel; and the Holy Ghost was in him. (And behold! there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name (was) Simeon; and this man (was) righteous, and virtuous, (or full of reverence), and awaited the strengthening of Israel; and the Holy Spirit was in him.)

²⁶ And he had taken an answer of the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, no but he saw first the Christ of the Lord. (And he had received an answer from the Holy Spirit, that he would not see death, until he had seen the Messiah of the Lord.)

²⁷ And he came in (the) Spirit into the temple (or And directed by the Spirit he came to the Temple). And when his father and mother led in the child Jesus to do after the custom of the law for him,

²⁸ he took him into his arms, and blessed God, and said,

²⁹ Lord, now thou leavest thy servant after thy word in peace; (Lord, now thou lettest thy servant go or to depart in peace, according to thy word;)

³⁰ for mine eyes have seen thine health, (for my eyes have seen thy salvation or thy deliverance,)

³¹ which thou hast made ready before the face of all (the) peoples;

³² light to the showing of heathen men, and (the) glory of thy people Israel. (light for the showing to the Gentiles, and glory to thy people Israel.)

³³ And his father and his mother were wondering on these things, that were said of him (or that were said about their son).

³⁴ And Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary, his mother, Lo! this (child) is set into the falling down and into the rising again of many men in Israel, and into a token, to whom it shall be against-said, (or and as a sign, to which it shall be said against, or which shall be rejected).

³⁵ And a sword shall pass through thine own soul, (so) that the thoughts be showed of many hearts.

³⁶ And Anna was a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the lineage of Aser. And she had gone forth in many days, and had lived with her husband seven years from her maidenhood.

³⁷ And this (woman) was a widow to fourscore years and four; and she departed not from the temple, but served God night and day in fastings and prayers.

³⁸ And this (woman) came upon them in that hour, and acknowledged to the Lord, and spake of him to all that abided the redemption of Israel. (And she came upon them at that time, and thanked the Lord, and spoke about him to all who waited for Israel’s redemption.)

³⁹ And as they had full done all things or And as they had perfectly done all things, after the law of the Lord, they turned again into Galilee, into their city Nazareth, (or they returned to Galilee, to their city of Nazareth).

⁴⁰ And the child waxed, and was comforted, full of wisdom, (or And the child grew, and was strengthened, and was full of wisdom); and the grace of God was in him.

⁴¹ And his father and mother went each year into Jerusalem, in the solemn day of pask. (And his father and mother went each year to Jerusalem, for the Feast Day, or the Festival, of Passover.)

⁴ And Joseph wente vp fro Galilee, fro the citee Nazareth, in to Judee, in to a citee of Dauid, that is clepid Bethleem, for that he was of the hous and of the meyne of Dauid,

⁵ that he schulde knouleche with Marie, his wijf, that was weddid to hym, and was greet with child.

⁶ And it was don, while thei weren there, the daies weren fulfillid, that sche schulde bere child.

⁷ And sche bare hir first borun sone, and wlappide hym in clothis, and leide hym in a cratche, for ther was no place to hym in no chaumbir.

⁸ And scheepherdis weren in the same cuntre, wakynge and kepynge the watchis of the nyyt on her flok.

⁹ And lo! the aungel of the Lord stood bisidis hem, and the cleernesse of God schinede aboute hem; and thei dredden with greet drede.

¹⁰ And the aungel seide to hem, Nyle ye drede; for lo! Y preche to you a greet ioye, that schal be to al puple.

¹¹ For a sauyoure is borun to dai to you, that is Crist the Lord, in the citee of Dauid.

¹² And this is a tokene to you; ye schulen fynde a yong child wlappid in clothis, and leid in a cratche.

¹³ And sudenli ther was maad with the aungel a multitude of heuenli knyythod, heriynge God,

¹⁴ and seiynge, Glorie be in the hiyeste thingis to God, and in erthe pees be to men of good wille.

¹⁵ And it was don, as the `aungelis passiden awei fro hem in to heuene, the scheephirdis spaken togider, and seiden, Go we ouer to Bethleem, and se we this word that is maad, which the Lord hath `maad, and schewide to vs.

¹⁶ And thei hiyynge camen, and founden Marie and Joseph, and the yong child leid in a cratche.

¹⁷ And thei seynge, knewen of the word that was seid to hem of this child.

¹⁸ And alle men that herden wondriden, and of these thingis that weren seid to hem of the scheephirdis.

¹⁹ But Marie kepte alle these wordis, berynge togider in hir herte.

²⁰ And the scheepherdis turneden ayen, glorifyinge and heriynge God in alle thingis that thei hadden herd and seyn, as it was seid to hem.

²¹ And aftir that the eiyte daies weren endid, that the child schulde be circumcided, his name was clepid Jhesus, which was clepid of the aungel, bifor that he was conceyued in the wombe.

²² And aftir that the daies of the purgacioun of Marie weren fulfillid, aftir Moyses lawe, thei token hym into Jerusalem, to offre hym to the Lord, as it is writun in the lawe of the Lord,

²³ For euery male kynde openynge the wombe, schal be clepid holi to the Lord; and that thei schulen yyue an offryng,

²⁴ aftir that it is seid in the lawe of the Lord, A peire of turturis, or twei culuer briddis.

²⁵ And lo! a man was in Jerusalem, whos name was Symeon; and this man was iust and vertuous, and aboode the coumfort of Israel; and the Hooli Goost was in hym.

²⁶ And he hadde takun an answere of the Hooli Goost, that he schulde not se deeth, but he sawy first the Crist of the Lord.

²⁷ And he cam in spirit into the temple. And whanne his fadir and modir ledden the child Jhesu to do aftir the custom of the lawe for hym,

²⁸ he took hym in to hise armes, and he blesside God,

²⁹ and seide, Lord, now thou leuyst thi seruaunt aftir thi word in pees;

³⁰ for myn iyen han seyn thin helthe,

³¹ which thou hast maad redi bifor the face of alle puplis;

³² liyt to the schewyng of hethene men, and glorie of thi puple Israel.

³³ And his fadir and his modir weren wondrynge on these thingis, that weren seid of hym.

³⁴ And Symeon blesside hem, and seide to Marie, his modir, Lo! this is set in to the fallyng doun and in to the risyng ayen of many men in Israel, and in to a tokene, to whom it schal be ayenseid.

³⁵ And a swerd schal passe thorou thin owne soule, that the thouytis ben schewid of many hertis.

³⁶ And Anna was a prophetesse, the douytir of Fanuel, of the lynage of Aser. And sche hadde goon forth in many daies, and hadde lyued with hir hosebonde seuene yeer fro hir maydynhode.

³⁷ And this was a widewe to foure scoor yeer and foure; and sche departide not fro the temple, but seruyde to God nyyt and dai in fastyngis and preieris.

³⁸ And this cam vpon hem in thilk our, and knoulechide to the Lord, and spak of hym to alle that abiden the redempcioun of Israel.

³⁹ And as thei hadden ful don alle thingis, aftir the lawe of the Lord, thei turneden ayen in to Galilee, in to her citee Nazareth.

⁴⁰ And the child wexe, and was coumfortid, ful of wisdom; and the grace of God was in hym.

⁴¹ And his fadir and modir wenten ech yeer in to Jerusalem, in the solempne dai of pask.

⁴ and Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, that is called Bethlehem, because of his being of the house and family of David,

⁵ to enrol himself with Mary his betrothed wife, being with child.

⁶ And it came to pass, in their being there, the days were fulfilled for her bringing forth,

⁷ and she brought forth her son — the first-born, and wrapped him up, and laid him down in the manger, because there was not for them a place in the guest-chamber.

⁸ And there were shepherds in the same region, lodging in the field, and keeping the night-watches over their flock,

⁹ and lo, a messenger of the Lord stood over them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they feared a great fear.

¹⁰ And the messenger said to them, 'Fear not, for lo, I bring you good news of great joy, that shall be to all the people —

¹¹ because there was born to you to-day a Saviour — who is Christ the Lord — in the city of David,

¹² and this is to you the sign: Ye shall find a babe wrapped up, lying in the manger.'

¹³ And suddenly there came with the messenger a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God, and saying,

¹⁴ 'Glory in the highest to God, and upon earth peace, among men — good will.'

¹⁵ And it came to pass, when the messengers were gone away from them to the heavens, that the men, the shepherds, said unto one another, 'We may go over indeed unto Bethlehem, and see this thing that hath come to pass, that the Lord did make known to us.'

¹⁶ And they came, having hasted, and found both Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in the manger,

¹⁷ and having seen, they made known abroad concerning the saying spoken to them concerning the child.

¹⁸ And all who heard, did wonder concerning the things spoken by the shepherds unto them;

¹⁹ and Mary was preserving all these things, pondering in her heart;

²⁰ and the shepherds turned back, glorifying and praising God, for all those things they heard and saw, as it was spoken unto them.

²¹ And when eight days were fulfilled to circumcise the child, then was his name called Jesus, having been so called by the messenger before his being conceived in the womb.

²² And when the days of their purification were fulfilled, according to the law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem, to present to the Lord,

²³ as it hath been written in the Law of the Lord, — 'Every male opening a womb shall be called holy to the Lord,'

²⁴ and to give a sacrifice, according to that said in the Law of the Lord, 'A pair of turtle-doves, or two young pigeons.'

²⁵ And lo, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name is Simeon, and this man is righteous and devout, looking for the comforting of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him,

²⁶ and it hath been divinely told him by the Holy Spirit — not to see death before he may see the Christ of the Lord.

²⁷ And he came in the Spirit to the temple, and in the parents bringing in the child Jesus, for their doing according to the custom of the law regarding him,

²⁸ then he took him in his arms, and blessed God, and he said,

²⁹ 'Now Thou dost send away Thy servant, Lord, according to Thy word, in peace,

³⁰ because mine eyes did see Thy salvation,

³¹ which Thou didst prepare before the face of all the peoples,

³² a light to the uncovering of nations, and the glory of Thy people Israel.'

³³ And Joseph and his mother were wondering at the things spoken concerning him,

³⁴ and Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, 'Lo, this one is set for the falling and rising again of many in Israel, and for a sign spoken against —

³⁵ (and also thine own soul shall a sword pass through) — that the reasonings of many hearts may be revealed.'

³⁶ And there was Anna, a prophetess, daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher, she was much advanced in days, having lived with an husband seven years from her virginity,

³⁷ and she is a widow of about eighty-four years, who did depart not from the temple, with fasts and supplications serving, night and day,

³⁸ and she, at that hour, having come in, was confessing, likewise, to the Lord, and was speaking concerning him, to all those looking for redemption in Jerusalem.

³⁹ And when they finished all things, according to the Law of the Lord, they turned back to Galilee, to their city Nazareth;

⁴⁰ and the child grew and was strengthened in spirit, being filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon him.

⁴¹ And his parents were going yearly to Jerusalem, at the feast of the passover,