Chapter 8—The Passover Visit
This chapter is based on
Luke 2:41-51
.
Among the Jews the twelfth year was the dividing line between
childhood and youth. On completing this year a Hebrew boy was
called a son of the law, and also a son of God. He was given special
opportunities for religious instruction, and was expected to participate
in the sacred feasts and observances. It was in accordance with this
custom that Jesus in His boyhood made the Passover visit to Jerusalem.
Like all devout Israelites, Joseph and Mary went up every year to attend
the Passover; and when Jesus had reached the required age, they took
Him with them.
There were three annual feasts, the Passover, the Pentecost, and the
Feast of Tabernacles, at which all the men of Israel were commanded to
appear before the Lord at Jerusalem. Of these feasts the Passover was
the most largely attended. Many were present from all countries where
the Jews were scattered. From every part of Palestine the worshipers
came in great numbers. The journey from Galilee occupied several
days, and the travelers united in large companies for companionship
and protection. The women and aged men rode upon oxen or asses
over the steep and rocky roads. The stronger men and the youth
[76]
journeyed on foot. The time of the Passover corresponded to the close
of March or the beginning of April, and the whole land was bright with
flowers, and glad with the song of birds. All along the way were spots
memorable in the history of Israel, and fathers and mothers recounted
to their children the wonders that God had wrought for His people in
ages past. They beguiled their journey with song and music, and when
at last the towers of Jerusalem came into view, every voice joined in
the triumphant strain,—
“Our feet shall stand
Within thy gates, O Jerusalem....
Peace be within thy walls,
And prosperity within thy palaces.”
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