King James Version
What Does Luke 2:19 Mean?
“But Mary kept all these things , and pondered them in her heart.”
Context
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.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(19) **Mary kept all these things.**—On the assumption that the whole narrative is traceable to the Virgin herself as its first author, these brief and simple touches as to her own feelings are of singular interest. She could not as yet understand all that had been said and done, but she received it in faith, and waited till it should be made clear. It was enough for her to know that her Child was, in some sense, the Son of God and the hope of Israel. The contrast between the simplicity and purity of St. Luke’s narrative, and the fantastic and often prurient details of the Apocryphal *Gospel of the Infancy* is every way suggestive.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Luke. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Luke 2:19 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Luke 2:19
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge