Matthew 2:6
And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.
Matthew 2:6 · King James Version
Meaning
Matthew 2:6 quotes the prophecy from Micah 5:2, which foretold the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. The verse emphasizes the significance of Bethlehem, a seemingly insignificant town in the land of Juda, as the birthplace of a great ruler who would come to lead the people of Israel. This verse highlights the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies through the birth of Jesus, who would eventually become the Savior and King of Israel. The verse portrays Bethlehem as a place of honor and importance, despite its small size, as it became the birthplace of the promised Messiah. Through this verse, we understand the divine plan and purpose behind the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, fulfilling the prophecy and establishing Jesus as the rightful ruler and governor of His people.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse focuses on the prophecy regarding the birthplace of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. Bethlehem, a small town in Judea, was foretold as the birthplace of the Savior. The mention of Bethlehem as being "not the least among the princes of Judah" emphasizes its significance in God's plan of salvation. The verse highlights the fulfillment of prophecy from the Old Testament, specifically in Micah 5:2. The term "Governor" refers to Jesus as the rightful ruler of God's people, Israel. This title signifies Jesus' authority and sovereignty over His followers. The inclusion of Bethlehem in this prophecy reinforces the humble beginnings of Jesus' life on earth and the fulfillment of God's divine plan. Overall, this verse underscores the divine foreknowledge and sovereignty of God in orchestrating the coming of the Savior in a specific time and place.
Matthew 2:6 in other translations
American Standard Version
And thou Bethlehem, land of Judah, art in no wise least among the princes of Judah: for out of thee shall come forth a governor, who shall be shepherd of my people Israel.
World English Bible
‘You Bethlehem, land of Judah, are in no way least among the princes of Judah: for out of you shall come a governor, who shall shepherd my people, Israel.’”
Douay-Rheims
And thou Bethlehem the land of Juda art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come forth the captain that shall rule my people Israel.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And thou Beth-leem in the lande of Iuda, art not the least among the Princes of Iuda: For out of thee shall come the gouernour that shall feede that my people Israel.