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Matthew 4:13

And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim:

Matthew 4:13 · King James Version

Meaning

When Jesus left Nazareth to dwell in Capernaum, he was making a significant move in his ministry. Capernaum, located on the Sea of Galilee, was a busy trade hub and a place of great cultural diversity. By choosing to establish his base in Capernaum, Jesus was strategically positioning himself to reach a wider audience with his teachings and miracles. The mention of Capernaum being in the borders of Zebulun and Naphtali is significant because it fulfills the prophecy in Isaiah 9:1-2 that the Messiah would bring light to this region. This verse highlights Jesus' deliberate actions to fulfill the prophecies about him and bring salvation to the people in that area.

Theological Overview

Capernaum is a significant location in the Bible as it became Jesus' base of operations during his Galilean ministry. This move from Nazareth to Capernaum has theological implications as it reflects Jesus' mission to reach a wider audience beyond his hometown. The specific mention of Capernaum being situated in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim is also noteworthy as it fulfills the messianic prophecy in Isaiah 9:1-2, which foretells that the Messiah would bring light to Galilee of the Gentiles. This geographical detail adds depth to the understanding of Jesus' ministry as a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. Additionally, the sea coast location of Capernaum symbolizes the universal reach of Jesus' message, as the sea was often seen as a symbol of the gentile nations. Thus, this verse not only marks a physical relocation but also signifies a broader spiritual mission that Jesus embarks upon.

Matthew 4:13 in other translations

American Standard Version

and leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is by the sea, in the borders of Zebulun and Naphtali:

World English Bible

Leaving Nazareth, he came and lived in Capernaum, which is by the sea, in the region of Zebulun and Naphtali,

Douay-Rheims

And leaving the city Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capharnaum on the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and of Nephthalim;

Geneva Bible (1599)

And leauing Nazareth, went and dwelt in Capernaum, which is neere the sea in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim,