journey from nazareth to bethlehem map

Journeys of Mary and Joseph Map

Nazareth is the hometown of Mary and Joseph. In 5 B.C., just before the birth of Christ, the Romans require them to travel to their ancestral home (they were both of the lineage of King David) of Bethlehem. The couple travels the roughly 80 miles (about 129 kilometers) to the city, where Christ will be ultimately born in a stable and laid in a manger (Luke 2:1 - 20).

Jesus Is Circumcised

Jesus' birth, which occurs on or around the Feast of Trumpets (September 2 in 5 B.C.) fulfills the prophecy found in Micah 5:2. Joseph, on the eighth day after Mary gives birth, takes the family to Jerusalem so that the Lord can be circumcised according to the law of God (Luke 2:21).

Presented to God

Forty days after Jesus is born, fulfilling the purification requirement of Leviticus 12, Mary and Joseph travel to Jerusalem's temple to present him before God. The trip is only 6 miles (9.6 kilometers) long. His parents make an offering to the temple of two young birds. It is during their visit that a priest named Simeon prophesied about Jesus' mission in life and blessed his parents.

Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary, His mother, "Behold, this Child is set for the fall and rising up of many in Israel, and for a sign that shall be spoken against, "(And you also, a sword shall go through your own soul) in order that the imaginations of many hearts may be revealed." (Luke 2:34 - 35, HBFV).

Before Mary and Joseph leave the temple to return home a woman named Anna, a widowed prophetess who lived in Jerusalem, praises the Lord when she learns of Jesus' birth.

Now there was 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; And she was a widow of about eighty-four years . . . And at the same time she came up, giving praise to the Lord; and she spoke concerning Him to all those in Jerusalem who were waiting for redemption (Luke 2:36 - 38, HBFV).

The family then makes the short trip back to Bethlehem.

Back to Bethlehem

In Bethlehem, Jesus' family is living in a home and not a stable (Matthew 2:11). The wise men (Magi) from the East, guided by a star (an angel), arrive to worship the King of Kings with Mary in attendance.

And when they had come into the house, they found the little Child with Mary His mother, and they bowed down and worshiped Him; then they opened their treasures and presented their gifts to Him - gold and frankincense and myrrh (Matthew 2:22, HBFV).

After the wise men leave, Joseph is told (in a dream) to flee to Egypt (verse 13). He is informed of this because Herod the Great will soon issue a command that all male children two years old and younger, in and around Bethlehem, are to be put to death (Matthew 2:16).

Now after they (the Magi) had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, "Arise and take the little Child and His mother, and escape into Egypt, and remain there until I shall tell you; for Herod is about to seek the little Child to destroy Him." (Matthew 2:13, HBFV).

Mass Murder

Herod's cruel actions fulfill a prophecy regarding the slaughter of innocent children (Jeremiah 31:15). Their journey from Bethlehem to what is Egyptian-controlled territory (which was outside the jurisdiction of Herod) was at least 65 kilometers (40 miles).

After Herod dies in early 4 B.C., Joseph has a dream where an angel tells him it is safe to return to Israel. Mary and the family's trip to and from Egypt is a fulfillment of Bible prophecy (Hosea 11:1). They soon begin their travel back to Judea and Bethlehem.

Return to Bethlehem?

However, as Mary and Joseph approach Judea, it is discovered that Herod Archelaus, the eldest surviving son of Herod the Great, is the new ruler of the area. Like his father, Archelaus rules with tyranny and cruelty. John Gills' Exposition of the Bible states that one time he sent his entire army into Jerusalem's temple, at Passover, in order to kill 3,000 men suspected of sedition.

Joseph's fears about living within Judea are confirmed when God sends him a warning in a dream.

. . . an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in Egypt in a dream, saying, "Arise and take the little Child and His mother, and go into the land of Israel; for those who were seeking the life of the little Child have died." And he arose and took the little Child and His mother, and came into the land of Israel. But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judea instead of Herod his father, he was afraid to go there; and after being divinely instructed in a dream, he went into the parts of Galilee (Matthew 2:19 - 22, HBFV).

The family, instead of going back to Bethlehem, continue their journey and go northward to their hometown of Nazareth (Matthew 2:22 - 23). The city is part of Galilee, which is ruled by a another son of Herod the Great named Herod Antipas. This son had a slightly less violent disposition than Archelaus.

A Long Journey

The travels of Mary and Joseph from Egyptian territory all the way north to Nazareth is a journey of more than 140 miles (225 kilometers, see Luke 2:39 - 40)! Jesus spends his childhood and young adult years living in Nazareth (which fulfills the prophecy stated in Matthew 2:23).

After the death of his step-father sometime between his 12th and 30th birthday, Jesus continues to live in Nazareth until he journeys to Capernaum to begin his public ministry.

Map References Holy Bible, a Faithful Version John Gills' Exposition of the Bible

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• 1 June Acts 13:13
• 2 June. Acts 13:14-52
• 3 June. Acts 14:1-7
• 4 June. Acts 14:8-20
• 5 June. Acts 14:21-28
• 6 June. Acts 15:1-20
• 7 June. Acts 15:22-35
• 8 June. Acts 15:36-16:5
• 9 June. Acts 16:6-8
• 10 June. Acts 16:9-10
• 11 June. Acts 16:13-15
• 12 June. Acts 16:16-24
• 13 June. Acts 16:25-34
• 14 June. Acts 16:35-40
• 15 June. Acts 17:1
• 16 June. Acts 17:1-9
• 17 June. Acts 17:10-15
• 18 June. Acts 17:16-33
• 19 June. Acts 18:1-11
• 20 June. Acts 18:12-17
• 21 June. Acts 18:18-23
• 22 June. Acts 18:24-28
• 23 June. Acts 19:1-7
• 24 June. Acts 19:8-10
• 25 June. Acts 19:11-20
• 26 June. Acts 19:23-20:1
• 27 June. Acts 20:1-3
• 28 June. Acts 20:3-6
• 29 June. Acts 20:7-12
• 30 June. Acts 20:13-38
• 1 July Acts 21:1-7
• 2 July Acts 21:7-15
• 3 July Acts 21:17-26
• 4 July Acts 21:27-40
• 5 July Acts 22:1-29
• 6 July Acts 22:30-23:11
• 7 July Acts 23:12-32
• 8 July Acts 24:1-26
• 9 July Acts 24:27-25:12
• 10 July Acts 25:13-27
• 11 July Acts 26:1-32
• 12 July Acts 27:1-6
• 13 July Acts 27:7-20
• 14 July Acts 27:21-44
• 15 July Acts 28:1-10
• 16 July Acts 28:11-31
• 17 July Colossians 4:2-17
• 18 July 2 Peter 1:1-2,3:1-16
• 19 July Galatians 1:1-24
• 20 July Galatians 2:1-10
• 21 July Galatians 3:1-14
• 22 July Galatians 3:19-29
• 23 July Galatians 4:1-31
• 24 July Galatians 5:16-25,6:1-18
• 25 July 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10
• 26 July 1 Thessalonians 2:1-16
• 27 July 1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:13
• 28 July 1 Thessalonians 4:1-12
• 29 July 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11
• 30 July 1 Thessalonians 5:12-28
• 31 July 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12
• 1 Aug. 2 Thessalonians 2:1-15
• 2 Aug. 2 Thessalonians 3:1-18
• 3 Aug. 1 Corinthians 1:1-9
• 4 Aug. 1 Corinthians 1:10-17
• 5 Aug. 1 Corinthians 1:18-31
• 6 Aug. 1 Corinthians 2:1-16
• 7 Aug. 1 Corinthians 3:1-23
• 8 Aug. 1 Corinthians 4:1-17
• 9 Aug. 1 Corinthians 6:1-11
• 10 Aug. 1 Corinthians 7:1-16
• 11 Aug. 1 Corinthians 9:1-27
• 12 Aug. 1 Corinthians 10:16-17,11:20-34
• 13 Aug. 1 Corinthians 12:1-11
• 14 Aug. 1 Corinthians 12:12-31
• 15 Aug. 1 Corinthians 13:1-13
• 16 Aug. 1 Corinthians 14:1-25
• 17 Aug. 1 Corinthians 14:26-40
• 18 Aug. 1 Corinthians 15:1-26
• 19 Aug. 1 Corinthians 15:35-55
• 20 Aug. 1 Corinthians 16:1-24
• 21 Aug. 2 Corinthians 1:1-11
• 22 Aug. 2 Corinthians 2:12-17
• 23 Aug. 2 Corinthians 3:5-18
• 24 Aug. 2 Corinthians 4:1-6
• 25 Aug. 2 Corinthians 4:7-18
• 26 Aug. 2 Corinthians 5:1-10
• 27 Aug. 2 Corinthians 5:14-21
• 28 Aug. 2 Corinthians 6:1-18,7:1
• 29 Aug. 2 Corinthians 8:1-12
• 30 Aug. 2 Corinthians 11:16-33
• 31 Aug. 2 Corinthians 12:1-10
• 1 Sept. 2 Corinthians 13:5-14
• 2 Sept. Romans 1:1-7
• 3 Sept. Romans 1:18-32
• 4 Sept. Romans 2:1-11
• 5 Sept. Romans 3:19-31
• 6 Sept. Romans 4:1-16
• 7 Sept. Romans 5:1-11
• 8 Sept. Romans 6:1-14
• 9 Sept. Romans 7:1-6
• 10 Sept. Romans 8:5-17
• 11 Sept. Romans 8:18-30
• 12 Sept. Romans 8:31-39
• 13 Sept. Romans 10:1-13
• 14 Sept. Romans 12:1-21
• 15 Sept. Romans 13:1-10
• 16 Sept. Romans 14:1-12
• 17 Sept. Romans 15:1-33
• 18 Sept. Romans 16:1-27
• 19 Sept. Ephesians 1:1-10
• 20 Sept. Ephesians 1:11-22
• 21 Sept. Ephesians 2:1-10
• 22 Sept. Ephesians 2:11-22
• 23 Sept. Ephesians 3:1-13
• 24 Sept. Ephesians 3:14-21
• 25 Sept. Ephesians 4:1-16
• 26 Sept. Ephesians 4:17-32
• 27 Sept. Ephesians 5:1-20
• 28 Sept. Ephesians 5:21-33
• 29 Sept. Ephesians 6:1-9
• 30 Sept. Ephesians 6:10-18
• 1 Oct. Ephesians 6:18-24
• 2 Oct. Colossians 1:1-14
• 3 Oct. Colossians 1:15-23
• 4 Oct. Colossians 2:1-15
• 5 Oct. Colossians 2:16-23
• 6 Oct. Colossians 3:1-17
• 7 Oct. Colossians 3:18-4:6
• 8 Oct. Colossians 4:7-18
• 9 Oct. Philemon 1:1-7
• 10 Oct. Philemon 1:7-25
• 11 Oct. Philippians 1:1-11
• 12 Oct. Philippians 1:12-26
• 13 Oct. Philippians 2:1-18
• 14 Oct. Philippians 3:1-21
• 15 Oct. Philippians 4:1-23
• 16 Oct. 1 Timothy 1:1-7
• 17 Oct. 1 Timothy 1:12-20
• 18 Oct. 1 Timothy 2:1-15
• 19 Oct. 1 Timothy 3:1-13
• 20 Oct. 1 Timothy 4:1-16
• 21 Oct. 1 Timothy 5:1-22
• 22 Oct. 1 Timothy 6:3-21
• 23 Oct. Titus 1:1-14
• 24 Oct. Titus 2:1-15
• 25 Oct. Titus 3:1-15
• 26 Oct. 2 Timothy 1:1-18
• 27 Oct. 2 Timothy 2:1-26
• 28 Oct. 2 Timothy 3:1-17
• 29 Oct. 2 Timothy 4:6-22
• 30 Oct. James 1:1-21
• 31 Oct. James 2:14-19,4:11-12
• 1 Nov. Jude 1:1-24
• 2 Nov. 1 Peter 1:1-11
• 3 Nov. 1 Peter 2:1-10
• 4 Nov. 2 Peter 1:1-19
• 5 Nov. 2 Peter 3:1-16
• 6 Nov. 1 John 1:5-9
• 7 Nov. 1 John 1:1-4
• 8 Nov. 1 John 2:7-17
• 9 Nov. 1 John 2:18-19
• 10 Nov. 1 John 2:20-29
• 11 Nov. 1 John 3:11-24
• 12 Nov. 1 John 4:7-20
• 13 Nov. 2 John 1:1-13
• 14 Nov. 3 John 1:1-15
• 15 Nov. Revelation 1:1-11
• 16 Nov. Revelation 2:1-7
• 17 Nov. Revelation 2:8-11
• 18 Nov. Revelation 2:12-17
• 19 Nov. Revelation 2:18-27
• 20 Nov. Revelation 3:1-6
• 21 Nov. Revelation 3:7-13
• 22 Nov. Revelation 3:14-22
• 23 Nov. Revelation 4:1-11
• 24 Nov. Revelation 5:1-14
• 25 Nov. Revelation 6:1-17
• 26 Nov. Revelation 7:1-17
• 27 Nov. Revelation 12:1-9
• 28 Nov. Revelation 17:1-18:19
• 29 Nov. Revelation 20:1-15
• 30 Nov. Revelation 21:1-27
• 1 Dec. Luke 1:5-20
• 2 Dec. Luke 1:26,39-56
• 3 Dec. Luke 1:57-80
• 4 Dec. Luke 3:1-16
• 5 Dec. Luke 3:15-20
• 6 Dec. Mark 1:1-8
• 7 Dec. Matt 3:13-17, John 1:28-34
• 8 Dec. Mark 6:14-29
• 9 Dec. Matthew 11:2-15
• 10 Dec. Luke 1:26-38
• 11 Dec. Luke 2:1-5
• 12 Dec. Luke 2:6-7
• 13 Dec. Matthew 1:1-17,22-23
• 14 Dec. Luke 2:8-14
• 15 Dec. Luke 2:15-20
• 16 Dec. Luke 2:21-24
• 17 Dec. Luke 2:25-35
• 18 Dec. Matthew 2:1-6
• 19 Dec. Matthew 2:7-9
• 20 Dec. Matthew 2:10-12
• 21 Dec. Matthew 2:13-14
• 22 Dec. Matthew 2:14-15
• 23 Dec. Matthew 2:16-18
• 24 Dec. Matthew 2:19-23
• 25 Dec. John 1:1-14
• 26 Dec. Luke 2:40-43
• 27 Dec. Luke 2:43-52
• 28 Dec. Hebrews 1:1-4
• 29 Dec. Hebrews 3:1-4:1
• 30 Dec. Hebrews 4:14-5:6
• 31 Dec. Hebrews 9:1-5,11-15
• 1 Jan. Genesis 1:1 - 2:3
• 2 Jan. Genesis 2:4-24
• 3 Jan. Genesis 2:8-17
• 4 Jan. Genesis 3:1-23
• 5 Jan. Genesis 4:1-16
• 6 Jan. Genesis 4:17-26
• 7 Jan. Genesis 6:5-22
• 8 Jan. Genesis 7:11-24
• 9 Jan. Genesis 8:1-17
• 10 Jan. Genesis 9:1-16
• 11 Jan. Genesis 10:11-12,32
• 12 Jan. Genesis 11:1-9
• 13 Jan. Genesis 11:27&37,12:1-7
• 14 Jan. Genesis 12:6,8-20
• 15 Jan. Genesis 13:1-18
• 16 Jan. Genesis 14:8-20
• 17 Jan. Genesis 15:1-11,17-21
• 18 Jan. Genesis 16:1-16
• 19 Jan. Genesis 17:1-16
• 20 Jan. Genesis 18:1-16
• 21 Jan. Genesis 19:1-26
• 22 Jan. Genesis 21:1-21
• 23 Jan. Genesis 22:1-18
• 24 Jan. Genesis 23:1-19
• 25 Jan. Genesis 24:1-61
• 26 Jan. Genesis 24:61-67
• 27 Jan. Genesis 25:1-11
• 28 Jan. Genesis 25:19-21,24-34
• 29 Jan. Genesis 26:1-9,12-15,23-25
• 30 Jan. Genesis 27:1-23,30-33,42-45
• 31 Jan. Genesis 28:10-22
• 1 Feb. Genesis 29:1-30
• 2 Feb. Genesis 29:31-35,30:1-12,17-24
• 3 Feb. Genesis 30:25-43
• 4 Feb. Genesis 31:1-21
• 5 Feb. Genesis 31:25-55
• 6 Feb. Genesis 32:1-8,13,22-30
• 7 Feb. Genesis 33:1-11
• 8 Feb. Genesis 33:12-20
• 9 Feb. Genesis 35:1-7
• 10 Feb. Genesis 35:9-15
• 11 Feb. Genesis 35:16-21,27-29
• 12 Feb. Genesis 37:1-11
• 13 Feb. Genesis 37:12-24
• 14 Feb. Genesis 37:25-34
• 15 Feb. Genesis 39:1-6
• 16 Feb. Genesis 39:6-22
• 17 Feb. Genesis 40:1-23
• 18 Feb. Genesis 41:1-14
• 19 Feb. Genesis 41:15-37
• 20 Feb. Genesis 41:39-57
• 21 Feb. Genesis 42:1-38
• 22 Feb. Genesis 43:1-33
• 23 Feb. Genesis 45:1-28
• 24 Feb. Genesis 46:1-7,28-30
• 25 Feb. Genesis 47:1-7,11-12,27-31
• 26 Feb. Genesis 50:1-26
• 27 Feb. Exodus 1:1-14
• 28 Feb. Exodus 1:15-22
• 1 Mar. Exodus 2:1-10
• 2 Mar. Exodus 2:11-15
• 3 Mar. Exodus 2:16-22
• 4 Mar. Exodus 3:1-10
• 5 Mar. Exodus 3:11-20
• 6 Mar. Exodus 4:1-17
• 7 Mar. Exodus 4:18-31
• 8 Mar. Exodus 5:1-21
• 9 Mar. Exodus 5:22-6:9
• 10 Mar. Exodus 7:14-21
• 11 Mar. Exodus 11:1-10
• 12 Mar. Exodus 12:1-17
• 13 Mar. Exodus 12:21-30
• 14 Mar. Exodus 12:29-40
• 15 Mar. Exodus 13:17-14:4
• 16 Mar. Exodus 14:5-31
• 17 Mar. Exodus 15:1-27
• 18 Mar. Exodus 16:1-18,31
• 19 Mar. Exodus 17:1-7
• 20 Mar. Exodus 17:8-16
• 21 Mar. Exodus 18:1-27
• 22 Mar. Exodus 19:1-11,14-19
• 23 Mar. Exodus 20:1-20
• 24 Mar. Exodus 21:1-23:17
• 25 Mar. Exodus 24:12-18
• 26 Mar. Exodus 25:1-26,33
• 27 Mar. Exodus 32:1-20
• 28 Mar. Exodus 32:21-35
• 29 Mar. Exodus 34:1-22,27-29
• 30 Mar. Exodus 40:1-21,33-36
• 31 Mar. Leviticus 1;1-14:4
• 1 Apr. Numbers 1:1-2:34
• 2 Apr. Numbers 10:11-11:35
• 3 Apr. Numbers 12:1-16
• 4 Apr. Numbers 13:1-33
• 5 Apr. Numbers 14:1-38
• 6 Apr. Numbers 14:41-45
• 7 Apr. Numbers 16:1-40
• 8 Apr. Numbers 16:41-17:11
• 9 Apr. Numbers 20:1-13
• 10 Apr. Numbers 20:14-21:4
• 11 Apr. Numbers 21:4-9
• 12 Apr. Numbers 21:10-20
• 13 Apr. Numbers 21:21-35
• 14 Apr. Numbers 22:1-24:25
• 15 Apr. Numbers 25:1-18
• 16 Apr. Numbers 26:1-65
• 17 Apr. Numbers 27:12-23
• 18 Apr. Numbers 31:1-16,25-31
• 19 Apr. Numbers 32:1-38
• 20 Apr. Numbers 34:1-18,35:1-12
• 21 Apr. Deuteronomy 8:1-11
• 22 Apr. Deuteronomy 34:1-12
• 23 Apr. Joshua 1:1-18
• 24 Apr. Joshua 2:1-24
• 25 Apr. Joshua 3:1-17
• 26 Apr. Joshua 4:1-24,5:1
• 27 Apr. Joshua 6:1-27
• 28 Apr. Joshua 7:1-26
• 29 Apr. Joshua 8:1-29
• 30 Apr. Joshua 8:30-35
• 1 May. Joshua 9:1-27
• 2 May. Joshua 10:1-28
• 3 May. Joshua 10:29-43
• 4 May. Joshua 11:1-14
• 5 May. Joshua 13:1-8,14:1-4,18:1
• 6 May. Joshua 20:1-9
• 7 May. Joshua 22:1-16,21,28,30-34
• 8 May. Joshua 23:1-16,24:14-16,22-27
• 9 May. Joshua 24:29-33
• 10 May. Judges 1:1-11,17-19
• 11 May. Judges 2:1-5,10-15
• 12 May. Judges 2:16-23
• 13 May. Judges 3:5-11
• 14 May. Judges 3:12-30
• 15 May. Judges 4:1-24,5:31
• 16 May. Judges 6:1-27
• 17 May. Judges 6:33-40
• 18 May. Judges 7:1-25
• 19 May. Judges 8:4-28
• 20 May. Judges 8:29-9:21
• 21 May. Judges 9:22-49
• 22 May. Judges 9:50-57
• 23 May. Judges 10:1-16
• 24 May. Judges 10:17-11:33
• 25 May. Judges 11:30-31,34-40
• 26 May. Judges 12:1-6
• 27 May. Judges 12:7-15,13:1
• 28 May. Judges 13:2-25
• 29 May. Judges 14:1-11
• 30 May. Judges 14:12-20
• 31 May. Judges 15:1-8
• 1 June Judges 15:9-20
• 2 June Judges 16:1-3
• 3 June Judges 16:4-15
• 4 June Judges 16:16-31
• 5 June Judges 17:1-13
• 6 June Judges 18:1-31
• 7 June Judges 19:1-30
• 8 June Judges 20:1-48
• 9 June Judges 21:1-23
• 10 June Job 1:1-22
• 11 June Job 2:1-13
• 12 June Job 3:11-13:8
• 13 June Job 38:1-42:17
• 14 June Ruth 1:1-22
• 15 June Ruth 2:1-23
• 16 June Ruth 3:1-18
• 17 June Ruth 4:1-17
• 18 June 1 Samuel 1:1-20
• 19 June 1 Samuel 1:21-2:2
• 20 June 1 Samuel 2:11-12,18-26
• 21 June 1 Samuel 3:1-21
• 22 June 1 Samuel 4:1-18
• 23 June 1 Samuel 5:1-12
• 24 June 1 Samuel 6:1-21,7:1
• 25 June 1 Samuel 7:2-17
• 26 June 1 Samuel 8:1-22
• 27 June 1 Samuel 9:1-27,10:1
• 28 June 1 Samuel 10:1-11
• 29 June 1 Samuel 10:13-25
• 30 June 1 Samuel 11:1-15
• 1 July 1 Samuel 12:1-25
• 2 July 1 Samuel 13:2-7
• 3 July 1 Samuel 13:8-15
• 4 July 1 Samuel 14:1-23
• 5 July 1 Samuel 14:24-46
• 6 July 1 Samuel 14:47-15:9
• 7 July 1 Samuel 15:10-31
• 8 July 1 Samuel 16:1-13
• 9 July 1 Samuel 16:14-23
• 10 July 1 Samuel 17:1-52
• 11 July 1 Samuel 17:57-58,18:1-16
• 12 July 1 Samuel 18:17-29
• 13 July 1 Samuel 19:1-18
• 14 July 1 Samuel 20:1-47
• 15 July 1 Samuel 21:1-9
• 16 July 1 Samuel 21:10-11,22:1-5
• 17 July 1 Samuel 22:6-19
• 18 July 1 Samuel 23:1-13
• 19 July 1 Samuel 24:1-22
• 20 July 1 Samuel 25:1-44
• 21 July 1 Samuel 26:1-25
• 22 July 1 Samuel 27:1-12
• 23 July 1 Samuel 28:1-20
• 24 July 1 Samuel 29:1-11
• 25 July 1 Samuel 30:1-31
• 26 July 1 Samuel 31:1-13
• 27 July 2 Samuel 1:1-16
• 28 July 2 Samuel 2:1-7
• 29 July 2 Samuel 2:8-17
• 30 July 2 Samuel 3:1,6-21
• 31 July 2 Samuel 3:22-32
• 1 Aug. 2 Samuel 4:1-12
• 2 Aug. 2 Samuel 5:1-12
• 3 Aug. 2 Samuel 5:17-25
• 4 Aug. 2 Samuel 6:1-23
• 5 Aug. 2 Samuel 7:1-17
• 6 Aug. 2 Samuel 8:1-14
• 7 Aug. 2 Samuel 9:1-13
• 8 Aug. 2 Samuel 10:1-14
• 9 Aug. 2 Samuel 11:1-17,26-27
• 10 Aug. 2 Samuel 12:1-18
• 11 Aug. 2 Samuel 12:24-31
• 12 Aug. 2 Samuel 13:1-39
• 13 Aug. 2 Samuel 14:21-33
• 14 Aug. 2 Samuel 15:1-12
• 15 Aug. 2 Samuel 15:13-37
• 16 Aug. 2 Samuel 16:1-22
• 17 Aug. 2 Samuel 17:1-29
• 18 Aug. 2 Samuel 18:1-33
• 19 Aug. 2 Samuel 19:1-18
• 20 Aug. 1 Kings 1:5-27
• 21 Aug. 1 Kings 1:28-53
• 22 Aug. 1 Kings 2:1-12
• 23 Aug. 1 Kings 2:13-46
• 24 Aug. 1 Kings 3:1-15
• 25 Aug. 1 Kings 3:16-28
• 26 Aug. 1 Kings 4:7,20-34
• 27 Aug. 1 Kings 5:1-18
• 28 Aug. 1 Kings 6:1-22,38
• 29 Aug. 1 Kings 7:1-12
• 30 Aug. 1 Kings 7:13-30,37-38,45-46
• 31 Aug. 1 Kings 8:1-11
• 1 Sept. 1 Kings 8:22-34,54-57,62-63
• 2 Sept. 1 Kings 9:1-9
• 3 Sept. 1 Kings 10:1-10,13
• 4 Sept. 1 Kings 11:1-13
• 5 Sept. 1 Kings 11:14-40
• 6 Sept. 1 Kings 11:42-12:20
• 7 Sept. 1 Kings 12:25-33
• 8 Sept. 1 Kings 14:1-20
• 9 Sept. 1 Kings 14:21-31
• 10 Sept. 1 Kings 15:1-16
• 11 Sept. 1 Kings 15:25-29,17-24
• 12 Sept. 1 Kings 16:1-22
• 13 Sept. 1 Kings 16:23-28
• 14 Sept. 1 Kings 16:29-33
• 15 Sept. 1 Kings 17:1-16
• 16 Sept. 1 Kings 17:17-24
• 17 Sept. 1 Kings 18:1-9,15-21
• 18 Sept. 1 Kings 18:22-40
• 19 Sept. 1 Kings 18:41-46
• 20 Sept. 1 Kings 19:1-18
• 21 Sept. 1 Kings 19:19-21
• 22 Sept. 1 Kings 20:1-22
• 23 Sept. 1 Kings 21:1-16
• 24 Sept. 1 Kings 21:17-29
• 25 Sept. 1 Kings 22:1-40
• 26 Sept. 2 Kings 1:1-18
• 27 Sept. 2 Kings 2:1-15
• 28 Sept. 2 Kings 3:1-27
• 29 Sept. 2 Kings 2:19-22,4:1-7
• 30 Sept. 2 Kings 4:8-37
• 1 Oct. 2 Kings 4:38-44
• 2 Oct. 2 Kings 5:1-15
• 3 Oct. 2 Kings 6:8-23
• 4 Oct. 2 Kings 8:7-15
• 5 Oct. 2 Kings 9:1-25
• 6 Oct. 2 Kings 9:30-37
• 7 Oct. 2 Kings 12:1-12
• 8 Oct. 2 Kings 13:1-9
• 9 Oct. 2 Kings 13:14-21
• 10 Oct. 2 Kings 14:23-29
• 11 Oct. 2 Kings 15:19-20,16:15-18
• 12 Oct. 2 Kings 17:1-18
• 13 Oct. 2 Kings 17:24-34
• 14 Oct. 2 Kings 18:1-8
• 15 Oct. 2 Kings 18:13-21,28-31,36
• 16 Oct. 2 Kings 19:1-10,19-20,32-36
• 17 Oct. 2 Kings 20:1-11
• 18 Oct. 2 Kings 20:12-21
• 19 Oct. 2 Kings 22:1-13
• 20 Oct. 2 Kings 23:1-4,8-11,21-25
• 21 Oct. 2 Kings 23:29-37
• 22 Oct. 2 Kings 24:1-7
• 23 Oct. 2 Kings 24:8-18
• 24 Oct. 2 Kings 25:1-21
• 25 Oct. Daniel 1:1-17
• 26 Oct. Daniel 3:9-15,19-20,24-30
• 27 Oct. Daniel 5:1-13,16-18,20-31
• 28 Oct. Daniel 6:1-11,16-17,19-23
• 29 Oct. Daniel 7:1-9,11-14,16-18
• 30 Oct. Daniel 11:1-9
• 31 Oct. Daniel 12:1-13
• 1 Nov. Ezra 1:1-11
• 2 Nov. Ezra 2:1-70
• 3 Nov. Ezra 3:1-13
• 4 Nov. Ezra 4:1-13,19-21
• 5 Nov. Ezra 5:1-9,6:1-4.13-22
• 6 Nov. Ezra 7:1-6,11-23,8:31-36
• 7 Nov. Nehemiah 1:1-4,2:1-10
• 8 Nov. Nehemiah 2:11-20
• 9 Nov. Nehemiah 4:1-23
• 10 Nov. Nehemiah 5:1-16,6:1-3,15-16
• 11 Nov. Nehemiah 8:1-12
• 12 Nov. Nehemiah 12:27-43
• 13 Nov. Esther 2:1-18
• 14 Nov. Esther 2:19-23
• 15 Nov. Esther 3:1-13
• 16 Nov. Esther 4:1-16
• 17 Nov. Esther 5:1-14
• 18 Nov. Esther 6:1-14
• 19 Nov. Esther 7:1-10
• 20 Nov. Esther 8:1-14
• 21 Nov. Esther 9:1-17,24-28
• 22 Nov. Amos 1:1-15,2:1-2
• 23 Nov. Amos 5:1-7,10-15
• 24 Nov. Hosea 1:1-11
• 25 Nov. Hosea 9:1-9
• 26 Nov. Micah 1:1-9
• 27 Nov. Micah 4:1-5,5:1-5
• 28 Nov. Isaiah 1:1-7,11-20
• 29 Nov. Isaiah 7:1-17,8:3-4
• 30 Nov. Isaiah 9:1-7
• 1 Dec. Isaiah 10:28-34,11:1-10
• 2 Dec. Isaiah 40:1-11
• 3 Dec. Isaiah 44:1-11
• 4 Dec. Isaiah 45:1-7,13-17
• 5 Dec. Isaiah 52:13-15,53:1-12
• 6 Dec. Isaiah 60:1-14
• 7 Dec. Nahum 2:1-13
• 8 Dec. Jeremiah 6:1-8,13-23
• 9 Dec. Jeremiah 7:1-11
• 10 Dec. Jeremiah 18:1-12
• 11 Dec. Jeremiah 19:1-13
• 12 Dec. Jeremiah 23:1-8
• 13 Dec. Jeremiah 26:1-15
• 14 Dec. Jeremiah 29:1-12
• 15 Dec. Zephaniah 1:1-13
• 16 Dec. Habakkuk 1:1-13
• 17 Dec. Ezekiel 1:1-17,22-28
• 18 Dec. Ezekiel 10:1-19,11:22-24
• 19 Dec. Ezekiel 17:1-10
• 20 Dec. Ezekiel 33:21-26,34:1-24
• 21 Dec. Ezekiel 37:1-14
• 22 Dec. Ezekiel 40:1-31
• 23 Dec. Ezekiel 43:1-12
• 24 Dec. Obadiah 1:1-11
• 25 Dec. Haggai 1:1-15
• 26 Dec. Zechariah 1:1-6
• 27 Dec. Zechariah 9:9-17
• 28 Dec. Zechariah 14:1-11
• 29 Dec. Malachi 3:1-5,4:1-6
• 30 Dec. Joel 2:1-11
• 31 Dec. Joel 2:25-32
• Bible Journey 1
• 1. The World of the New Testament Journeys
• 2. John the Baptist's Journeys
• 3. Jesus's Childhood Journeys
• 4. Jesus's Journeys around Galilee
• 5. Jesus's Journeys beyond Galilee
• 6. Jesus's Last Journey to Jerusalem
• 7. Journeys of Jesus's Followers
• 8. Paul's Journey to Damascus
• 9. Paul's Journey to Cyprus, Pamphylia & Galatia
• 10. Paul's Journey to Phrygia, Macedonia & Archaia
• 11. Paul's Journey to Ephesus, Philippi & Corinth
• 12. Paul's Journey to Rome
• 13. Paul's Letters to Galatia & Thessalonica
• 14. Paul's Letters to Corinth & Rome
• 15. Paul's Letters to Ephesus, Colossae & Philippi
• 16. Paul's Letters to Timothy & Titus
• 17. The Letter to the Jewish believers in Antioch
• 18. Letters from James, Jude & Peter
• 19. John's Letters to the believers in Asia Minor
• 20. John's Revelation to the 7 Churches of Asia
• 21. The Romano-Jewish world of the New Testament

Lk. 2:1-5         Mary and Joseph travel to Bethlehem in Judaea , where Joseph’s family live (see 1 on Map 4 ). The journey takes four or five days as Nazareth is 65 miles / 105 km north of Jerusalem  (in a straight line), while Bethlehem is a hilltop town situated on a ridge near the edge of the Judaean desert , 5 miles / 8km south of Jerusalem .

Map 4  The Birth of Jesus

                The Roman Census

Luke, writing his gospel in 60-62AD for a Roman audience (see Luke 1:3), gives the census ordered by Augustus Caesar (who was emperor from 27BC to 14AD) as the reason why Mary and Joseph travelled from Nazareth to Bethlehem before the birth of Jesus (see Luke 2:1-3 and 1 on Map 4 ). He explains that, as men had to register at their home town (so they could be taxed by the Romans), Mary and Joseph went to Bethlehem because Joseph was a descendent of King David and Joseph’s family came from Bethlehem (see Matthew 1:1 & 1 Samuel 16:1&13). Luke states that the census took place when Quirinius was the Roman governor of Syria .

The Jewish historian Josephus confirms that a general taxation was indeed overseen by Cyrenius (Quirinius).  He notes, however, that Cyrenius was appointed as Governor of the province of Syria when the Romans deposed Archelaus (Herod the Great’s son) as ruler of Judaea in 6AD. Judaea was then taken under direct Roman rule and incorporated into the Roman province of Syria . This resulted in a revolt led by Judas of Gamala (‘Judas the Galilean’), a Jewish zealot (see Acts 5:37).

As Jesus was born in 6 or 5BC, this Roman census occurred eleven or twelve years after his birth. As Jesus was born while Herod the Great was King of Judaea , no Roman governor of Syria would have had the jurisdiction to organise a census and general taxation in Judaea at the time of Jesus’s birth.

It appears, therefore, that Luke was mistaken when giving this Roman census as the cause of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem . Whatever the reason, Joseph made the decision to return to his family home in Bethlehem in time for his newly betrothed wife to give birth amongst his close relatives.

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The Lay Artiste

The Intersection of Art and Christianity

A Photographic Journey in Mary and Joseph’s Footsteps

It took little time for me to realize that the seat located just behind the rear stairwell of the tour bus uniquely offered a wide, unobstructed view of the Israeli landscape. “I see… You are The Rebel of the group. The Rebel always sits in the back of the bus,” teased our tour guide, a kind-hearted and brilliant man named Stephen. I always responded to Stephen’s light-hearted teasings with a grin. I dared not let on about the prime real estate I had come to occupy, lest I lose it to another member of our group. 

Our group had departed Nazareth – by way of Tabgha, Magdala, and Capernaum – and was headed by bus through the Judean Desert to Bethlehem. As I gazed through that wonderfully wide window of the tour bus on this hours-long drive, observing the harsh, rocky, and burnt landscape of the Jordan River Valley, I realized how little consideration I had previously given to the arduous journey of Joseph and the heavily pregnant Mary just prior to the birth of our King.

It started with a long descent…

Nazareth is situated in a “bowl” within the hills belonging to the Nazareth Range, of the elevated Lower Galilee tableau; the city sits +1,138 feet above sea level. Embarking on their journey, Mary and Joseph were first tasked with traversing the long descent from the hills down to the rolling flatlands of the Jordan River Valley, the deepest valley on planet Earth.

At its highest point, the Jordan River Valley is -696 feet below sea level; at its lowest point, the valley is -1,300 feet below sea level. “On both sides, to the east and west, the valley is bordered by high, steep, escarpments with the difference in elevation between the valley floor and the surrounding mountains varying between 1,200 m (3,900 ft) to 1,700 m (5,600 ft).” [ Wikipedia ]

The tough terrain may not have been the only peril which Mary and Joseph had to face on their journey.

As the LA Times reported, “One of the most terrifying dangers in ancient Palestine was the heavily forested valley of the Jordan River… Lions and bears lived in the woods, and travelers had to fend off wild boars. Archeologists have unearthed documents warning travelers of the forest’s dangers.”

Wandering the lowlands…

As our tour bus continued south along the banks of the Jordan River, the tree-scattered hills of the Galilee were soon relegated to our memories. Barren, treeless mountains and towering dunes stretched as far as the eyes could see. Piles of rocks and large boulders lay piled at the base of the parched, cracked, collapsing edges of the mountainside, which starkly ascended toward the heavens from the flatlands lining the Jordan River. 

Rocks and dirt. 

Dirt and rocks. 

We had entered the brutal wastelands of the Judean Desert. 

At a roadside rest-stop our group stepped off of our tour bus to stretch our legs. It was mid-October, but the heat was unbearable. The glare of the sun in the hazy sky bounced off the steep sides of the giant, treeless dunes. Stephen informed our group that it had not rained in Israel for the last four months.

We don’t know exactly what time of year Mary and Joseph made their trek to Bethlehem. Like the African Savanna, Israel has a dry and a rainy season. If Mary and Joseph’s journey occurred during the winter months (and early spring), temperatures in the Judean Desert are “in the 30s during the day [and] rains like heck,” according to James F. Strange, professor of the New Testament and biblical archeologist at the University of South Florida. [ LA Times ]

“It’s nasty, miserable. And at night it would be freezing.” Whether during the hot, dry months or during the cold, wet months, the voyage through the Judean Desert would have been grueling, especially for a heavily pregnant Mary.

According to Professor Strange, “To protect themselves during inclement weather, Mary and Joseph would likely have worn heavy woolen cloaks, constructed to shed rain and snow. Under their cloaks, the ancient residents wore long robes, belted at the waist. Tube-like socks and enclosed shoes protected the feet.” [ LA Times ]

Climbing the mountains of the Judean Desert

Several hours after our tour bus left the area around the Sea of Galilee, the bus made a right turn and began the long ascent toward Jerusalem and Bethlehem. We left the plains behind, but my view out of the bus window changed little; rather than peering at the barren mountains from below, I viewed this stark landscape from within. We gradually meandered upward, as Mary and Joseph had so long ago.

Dirt and rocks.

Rocks and dirt.

Onward and upward through the mountains and dunes the tour bus climbed. 

Stephen told us the tragic tale of a group of school children who, on a field trip to the mountains, had been caught by a flash flood and been swept away. This mountainous area of the desert is a treacherous place. 

Along our ascent, we passed a camel standing in the middle of a highway intersection. We passed a bedouin who lay fast asleep beneath a lone tree, his donkey beside him.

Gradually, the sight of trees became more frequent, but the sight of rocks scattering the hillsides remained. As the amount of cars on the road increased, I knew we were nearing our destination.

The Christ was Born in Bethlehem

By the time our tour group had reached the area of Bethlehem and Jerusalem, we had made a total ascent of approximately 3,500 feet from the Jordan River Valley below.

Bethlehem lies 98 feet higher than and 6.2 miles south of nearby Jerusalem.

It sits +2,543 feet above sea level. The town is situated on a hillside within the Judean Mountains.

It was after this monumental climb from the sub-sea level valley below that a likely exhausted Mary gave birth to our Lord. 

A Reflection:

Through my modern eyes, Mary and Joseph’s journey was no less than a monumental task.

The journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem spanned approximately 90 miles, across unpaved terrain and steep slopes, encompassing tremendous changes in elevation. It is likely, given Mary’s condition, that she and Joseph only covered ten miles each day.

The pair would have had to supply their own provisions for their journey. “In wineskins, they carried water,” said Rev. Peter Vasko, the coordinator of the Holy Land Foundation. [ LA Times ] “And they carried a lot of bread. . . . Breakfast would be dried bread, lunch would be oil with bread, and herbs with oil and bread in the evening.” It is difficult for me to imagine myself making such a journey with so little sustenance.

Additionally, the Rev. Vasko noted that “bandits, pirates of the desert and robbers” would have been “common hazards along the major trade routes like the one Joseph and Mary would have traveled.” [ LA Times ]

Wild animals, thieving bandits, little food, and a landscape that causes even the most seasoned explorers to shudder: for a heavily pregnant Mary, these challenges must have seemed insurmountable. Yet, faced with no choice, Mary and Joseph made this grueling journey to Bethlehem – a town fated to become the birthplace of our Lord and Savior Jesus the Christ.

Before I traveled the path that Mary and Joseph did so long ago, I wasn’t able to appreciate the difficulty of their task; it remains somewhat unfathomable still. Now, however, my respect for the pair’s strength and perseverance abounds. Through sharing my own journey by bus, following in Mary and Joseph’s footsteps, it is my hope that your own understanding and appreciation of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem has also grown.

At the least, I hope that the events precluding the birth of our Lord, culminating in the Nativity, is forever deepened and given greater dimension within our hearts and minds.

May the Lord bless you and keep you this Christmas season.

Posted in: Advent , Biblical History

Tagged as: Advent , Bethlehem , Christmas , History , Holy Land , Israel , Mary and Joseph , Nazareth , photography

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4 thoughts on “ A Photographic Journey in Mary and Joseph’s Footsteps ” Leave a comment ›

Hi Iam Blanca Ramirez from Saxum, can I use your photos from Bethelem for an article in our Newsletter Dic. 2022 ? Thanks for your confirmation, Blanca Whatsapp 506-8350-6347

Yes, you may use them. Thank you for asking!

The above topographical map shows Mary and Joseph’s path (green) from Nazareth to Bethlehem, along the Jordan River Valley. Source: The Casual English Bible Can I publish this map, too ?

Yes, you may.

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Nazareth to Bethlehem

December 23, 2019

Biblical geography , christmas.

Luke 2:4 indicates that Mary and Joseph traveled from Nazareth to Bethlehem in order to participate in a census. What kind of trip would that have entailed?

Nazareth is located in the hills along the northern edge of the Jezreel Valley. In the days of Jesus it was a small, back-water village. Archaeologists estimate it had a population of not more than 200 people, meaning Mary would have known everyone in town. It was located near a fresh-water spring that in later days became known as the place where the annunciation was made to Mary.

Mary’s well as it may have looked in the 1st century AD, by Vasily Polenov.

Bethlehem was located far to the south, in the region of Judah. It was also a small town, located on a hill about 5 miles south of Jerusalem. It was likely about the same size and population as Nazareth.

Aerial photo of Bethlehem, 1931.

There are two reasonable routes that Mary and Joseph could have taken to get from Nazareth to Bethlehem. The shortest route would have been to go directly south. This route would have crossed the Jezreel valley and then followed the ridge southward toward Jerusalem. This route would have covered about 70 miles. The drawback of this route was that it took travelers through the heart of Samaria, a region that was home to the half-Jewish Samaritans. In fact, this road passed between the mountains of Ebal and Gerizim near Shechem; the Samaritans had built a temple atop Mount Gerizim that was a copy of the temple in Jerusalem. The Samaritan woman at the well that talked to Jesus even pointed to that temple, asking Jesus whether God should be worshiped there or in Jerusalem (John 4).

The alternative was to bypass Samaria on the east. This required traveling along a road that moved down the Harod valley to the Jordan valley on the east, moving south to Jericho, and then climbing up the road to Jerusalem. The drawback of this route is that it was closer to 90 miles in length. Also, the ascent from Jericho to Jerusalem was steep and passed through some rather rough country (this is where the Jewish man fell among thieves, to be rescued by the Good Samaritan, Luke 10). These two routes are plotted on the map below, which is adapted from the ESV Bible Atlas , map 101.

Possible routes taken by Mary and Joseph as they traveled from Nazareth to Bethlehem; adapted from the ESV Bible Atlas, map 101.

The text does not state which route Joseph and Mary took. Either would likely have taken about a week. Incidentally, although it is common for artists to depict Mary and Joseph making this journey alone (see below), this seems highly unlikely. A woman as far along in pregnancy as Mary would surely have been accompanied by several female relatives to help her and assist in the birth, should that be necessary. Although these companions are not specifically mentioned in the text, it is nearly inconceivable that they were not there.

The Road to Bethlehem, by Joseph Brickey.

Awesome information. I am using it for a Christmas service on Sunday, December 26, at homes for the elderly site. The text is based upon Luke 2:1-20–the traditional Christmas account. Thanks for sharing.

Nice information on the distance of Nazareth to Bethlehem-thank you.

Thanks for the info. Great.

Feel happy to know more about the situation of Joseph and Mary might have faced to reach Bethlehem.

A woman as far along in pregnancy as Mary would surely have been accompanied by several female relatives to help her,it is nearly inconceivable that they were not there. No,is is completely inconceivable that this journey took place in the first place. The Monks who wrote all these impossible stories in the dark ages had no concept of just what it would really be like for a young girl ready to deliver a baby any day walking and maybe riding on a Donkey for a few miles everyday for over one hundred miles for ten to twelve days, maybe a little food and very little water, no sanitation means,no bedding to sleep on by the side of the trail. No, these Monks who were directed to make up all these fictitious impossible stories spent too much time in the King’s wine cellars.

The journey described by Luke may not be so inconceivable as you think. We don’t know how far along Mary was in her pregnancy when she undertook the trip, nor do we know how long they were in Bethlehem before she delivered. They may have been in Bethlehem several days, or even weeks, before she went into labor. It is also a mistake to think that travel through that region was so difficult as you imagine (little food, very little water, no sanitation). People of that day traveled those roads regularly. Things like the distances involved, what was necessary to take along, and the places to stop were common knowledge. They weren’t exploring unknown regions, they were traveling well-established routes that had been in use for thousands of years. Finally, the Gospel accounts were not written by monks in the Dark Ages. There are numerous manuscripts of the Gospels that date to the 3rd century AD, and some as early as the 2nd century. This is centuries before the Dark Ages. If you are curious enough to learn more, I would recommend Bruce Metzger’s The Text of the New Testament: Its Transmission, Corruption, and Restoration , Oxford, 2005, or Kurt and Barbara Aland’s The Text of the New Testament , Eerdmans, 1989, or Philip Comfort and David Barrett’s The Complete Text of the Earliest New Testament Manuscripts , Baker, 1999. Ignorance of these facts can be embarrassing in a discussion like ours.

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Biblical travel: How far to where, and what about the donkey?

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Distance from Nazareth to Judean Hill Country: 90 miles.

“At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth.” (Luke 1:39-40)

St. Luke makes it sound like Mary slipped out the front door, opened the gate, turned right, took a walk beside a park for a block or two and showed up on her cousin Elizabeth’s doorstep; nothing more than a stroll. All the Gospels portray ancient travel as undemanding. One begins here and ends there, as easy as teleporting off The Enterprise .

But it was a 90-mile walk to the village of Ein Karem, John the Baptist’s traditional birth place, and only five miles to Jerusalem from the southwest.

Mary traveled alone, Luke implies (though likely in caravan), and she was newly pregnant (think morning sickness). What St. Luke calls “hill country,” other references call “the Judean mountains.” It wasn’t a walk in the park. She stayed about three months with her cousin and then, one might guess, walked back for a chat with Joseph.

Distance from Nazareth to Bethlehem: 80 miles.

“So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee, to Bethlehem the town of David…” (Luke 2:4)

Going “up” to Bethlehem is an important clue about the terrain, meaning more Judean mountains. The range encompasses both Bethlehem and Jerusalem.

Galilee is north of Jerusalem; Bethlehem is to the south. The shortest route, 70 miles more or less as the crow flies, is through Samaria. Given the antipathy between Jews and Samaritans, Joseph and Mary likely skirted the area and went around the longer way.

Assuming an average pace of 2.5 mph, 20 miles a day, would mean a trip of four 8-hour days. Some speculation puts it at seven days, or ten. I think four days is about right. Mary in her late teens, strong, healthy peasant stock; even pregnant and near delivery she could have managed walking it.

That is if they didn’t bother with a donkey. With a donkey, no question, it was a seven- to ten-day trip. Yes, all the images depict Mary seated on a donkey. I suggest they are wrong.

I’ve hiked with pack burros; it is slower. A donkey will pretty much set its own pace and not usually the one you would like. You may be in front tugging a lead, but the donkey is in charge. You get to walk ahead and pretend you’re in command.

And I’ve ridden them. When donkey decides it’s had enough nonsense from you, it will simply stop, and there’s an end to everything until it decides otherwise. A donkey would have delayed them.

Even if they did have a donkey, I bet she walked. Donkeys aren’t fit for riding (again, yes, there are people who enjoy it over short distances; I’m not one of them at any distance). Eighty miles riding a donkey, picturesque as might be, still works out to, oh, let’s see, yes, 80 miles riding a donkey. Sensible people that they were, they walked.

Distance from Bethany to Jerusalem: 2 miles.

“Jesus entered Jerusalem and went to the temple. He looked around at everything, but since it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the Twelve.” (Mark 11:11)

Bethany, east of Jerusalem, became Jesus’ staging area for his Palm Sunday entry into Jerusalem during the week we call Holy. It was also his nightly retreat from Jerusalem. It was the home of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. It was at the Bethany home of Simon the Leper that, in his last week, Jesus received anointing by a woman. “She did it,” Jesus said, “to prepare me for burial.”

Two miles was the distance between safety and danger. He was relatively safe during the day, teaching in the temple. The temple hierarchy was reluctant to arrest him “for fear of the crowds”; they would not strike in the day. So he slipped out of the city each evening back to Bethany’s relative shelter, and back into Jerusalem the next morning.

He taught and answered the questions of Sadducee, Pharisee, and Scribe alike until finally, he had enough and made no further replies. His responses only stiffened the resolve of the temple authorities to execute him.

On the night of Passover he stayed in Jerusalem with his disciples. On the one night he remained in Jerusalem, two miles from Bethany, he was arrested while praying in Gethsemane’s garden.

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Mary and Joseph's Journey to Bethlehem

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Mary and joseph: the divine journey to bethlehem.

• Jesus Christ
• Mary: Mother of Jesus

The story of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem is a cornerstone of the Christmas narrative, embodying themes of faith, humility, and divine providence. This sacred journey, as recounted in the Bible, provides profound insights into the human experience and the unfolding of God’s plan.

The Annunciation and the Call to Bethlehem

The journey commences with the angel Gabriel’s visit to Mary, announcing that she, a young virgin, would conceive the Son of God. Mary’s humble acceptance of this divine calling sets the stage for a journey that transcends the physical realm.

Joseph, too, receives angelic guidance in a dream, affirming the miraculous nature of Mary’s conception and instructing him to take Mary as his wife. The couple, obedient to God’s will, begins their journey to Bethlehem.

The Arduous Path to Bethlehem

Traveling from Nazareth to Bethlehem, Mary and Joseph faced the challenges of a difficult journey, especially considering Mary’s impending childbirth. This aspect of their story highlights the real-world struggles intertwined with the divine narrative.

The arduous road mirrors the challenges often present in fulfilling one’s purpose. Mary and Joseph’s journey teaches us about perseverance and unwavering faith in the face of adversity.

The Humility of the Manger

Arriving in Bethlehem, the couple encounters a town crowded due to the census. With no lodging available, Mary and Joseph find refuge in a humble stable. The contrast between the grandeur of the divine moment and the simplicity of the surroundings underscores the theme of humility.

The choice of a manger as the birthplace of Jesus carries a powerful message. It symbolizes that God’s greatest gift to humanity arrived in the midst of modest circumstances, emphasizing the divine preference for the humble and the overlooked.

Lessons in Faith, Obedience, and Divine Providence

Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem provides profound lessons. Mary’s unwavering faith in accepting her role as the mother of the Savior sets an example of surrender to God’s plan. Joseph’s obedience, despite the societal challenges, showcases the strength found in following divine guidance.

The divine journey to Bethlehem reminds us of the intricate ways in which God’s providence operates. Every step of the way, from the annunciation to the humble stable, reflects the meticulous fulfillment of ancient prophecies and divine promises.

The Continuing Significance

As we reflect on the divine journey to Bethlehem, its significance extends beyond a historical event. It calls us to embark on our own journeys of faith, to trust in divine guidance, and to find the sacred in the midst of life’s challenges.

In celebrating the birth of Jesus, we honor not only the miraculous arrival of the Christ-child but also the transformative journey of Mary and Joseph. Their story inspires us to embrace the divine calling in our lives, navigate challenges with faith, and find profound meaning in the humblest of circumstances.

In essence, Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem represents the universal pilgrimage of the human spirit toward the divine, reminding us of the enduring message of hope, love, and salvation encapsulated in the Christmas story.

Related News

Sacred Journey Of Distance Between Nazareth and Bethlehem

Embarking on the sacred journey between Nazareth and Bethlehem is an experience that holds immense spiritual significance. This ancient path, tracing the footsteps of Mary and Joseph, takes you through the heart of biblical history and offers a unique opportunity to connect with the roots of Christianity. As I set out on this pilgrimage, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the depth of faith and history that envelops these hallowed grounds.

The distance between Nazareth and Bethlehem spans approximately 70 miles, leading pilgrims through breathtaking landscapes and captivating towns along the way. It’s a journey filled with symbolism, mirroring the arduous trek undertaken by Mary and Joseph as they sought shelter before the birth of Jesus. Walking in their footsteps brings alive the events that took place over two thousand years ago, bridging time and space in a profound manner.

As I made my way through this sacred route, I marveled at its ability to transcend time and touch something deep within my soul. Every step brought me closer to understanding the magnitude of what transpired here all those years ago. The spiritual energy pulsating through these ancient paths is palpable, igniting a sense of reverence within me that words cannot adequately capture.

Whether you embark on this journey for religious reasons or simply as an exploration of history, it is undeniable that walking from Nazareth to Bethlehem is an experience unlike any other. It allows you to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of biblical narratives while connecting with your own spirituality in a profound way. So lace up your boots, embrace this sacred adventure, and let the path guide you towards deeper insights into faith, history, and yourself.

Firstly, at the heart of this journey lies the biblical account of Mary and Joseph’s trek from Nazareth to Bethlehem. According to Christian tradition, it was during this pilgrimage that Mary, pregnant with Jesus, gave birth in a humble stable in Bethlehem. This event is considered pivotal in Christianity as it marks the birthplace of Jesus Christ, who is revered as the central figure in the faith.

Distance Between Nazareth and Bethlehem

Beyond its religious implications, this journey also carries historical significance due to its connection with ancient Roman rule. During the time of Jesus’ birth, Palestine was under Roman occupation, and Caesar Augustus had ordered a census to be conducted. This required people to travel back to their ancestral towns for registration purposes. Hence, Joseph and Mary’s journey can be seen as an act of compliance with Roman authority while fulfilling their religious obligations.

Furthermore, understanding the geographical context adds another layer of historical significance to this sacred journey. The distance between Nazareth and Bethlehem is approximately 70 miles or 113 kilometers—a considerable undertaking on foot during ancient times. Navigating through rugged terrains and facing various challenges along the way made this pilgrimage arduous yet spiritually rewarding for those who embarked upon it.

Lastly, throughout history, numerous pilgrims have followed in Mary and Joseph’s footsteps on this sacred route. Their devotion serves as a testament to how deeply ingrained this journey is within religious traditions. Pilgrims from all corners of the world continue to undertake this voyage today as an act of faith and devotion towards their beliefs.

Nazareth, a city steeped in biblical history, beckons travelers with its rich cultural heritage and significant religious sites. As I delve into the heart of this ancient city, I am captivated by the stories that have unfolded on its cobblestone streets and within its sacred walls.

One cannot mention Nazareth without acknowledging its most famous resident – Jesus Christ. It is here that he spent his childhood and adolescence, shaping the surroundings that would later influence his teachings. The Basilica of the Annunciation stands as a testament to this remarkable connection, housing the grotto where it is believed the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary. Inside, intricate mosaics from around the world adorn the walls, creating a vivid tapestry of devotion.

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The Journey of Mary and Joseph from Nazareth to Bethlehem

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Published January 30, 2022.

The story of the birth of Christ is significant to Christians as this is where the story of Christmas begins, but what about the events leading up to His birth? The circumstances surrounding the time is not as widely known as the nativity story. Mary and Joseph had to travel far and under dangerous conditions to get from their home in Nazareth to the childhood home of Joseph in Bethlehem. Once they arrived in Bethlehem, they faced further challenges.

Let's take a deeper look at their journey, including why they went to Bethlehem, how they got there, and the events which transpired at the time of their arrival.

Why Did Mary and Joseph Go to Bethlehem?

Mary and Joseph went to Bethlehem to participate in a census ordered by Caesar Augustus. This was ultimately so that everyone could be accounted for and pay taxes.

Everyone was to be registered in their own city, so Mary and Joseph had to return to Joseph's home city - Bethlehem in Judea. Bethlehem at the time was called David's city, and Joseph was of descent of David.

Let us remember that all things happen the way they do as it is God's will. While Mary and Joseph went to Bethlehem for the census, there was a very particular reason that the decree was given when Mary was as close to childbirth as she was. A prophecy given in Micah 5:2-3 speaks of the Messiah being born in Bethlehem.

It is a powerful passage in our Gospel, as it states clearly where the one true Messiah will be born. It refers to Jesus and confirms the reason for Caesar Augustus issuing the census so close to the birth of Christ.

How Did Mary and Joseph Travel to Bethlehem?

We all know the traditional story of how Mary rode on a donkey while Joseph walked. However, this is down to speculation. Neither the Bible passage that accounts for their journey nor any documentation mentions the infamous donkey. The donkeys included in the Nativity Scene are presumed to be those residing in the manger Mary and Joseph arrived at, not any brought along from their journey.

The speculation does not come without reason, however, as the trip was far uphill, and Mary was heavily pregnant at the time and may very well have required assistance. While the assumption is not entirely far-fetched, it is essential to note that it is merely speculation.

What Route Did Mary and Joseph Take?

 Luke 2:4 (NKJV) states that Joseph went up from Galilee into Judea. This is because the city of Bethlehem is elevated at about 2543 feet above sea level (1493 feet higher than Nazareth). Bethlehem is also located in the Judean Mountains, making for rugged terrain during their journey.

They had to navigate foothills in Jerusalem on their way, meaning they had to maneuver up and downhill throughout their journey. Mary and Joseph also took their journey during the beginning of winter, which meant they likely experienced rainfall along the way. To combat the elements, Mary and Joseph probably wore thick coats over their clothes, which added to the load they had to bear. In addition to these obstacles, they would have had to be careful of thieves along the road and dangerous animals in the surrounding woods.

While the exact time their journey would have taken is unknown, educated guesses place the number somewhere between four days and a week.

Arrival in Bethlehem

The relief of arriving at their destination as the city of Bethlehem was short-lived, as it was soon discovered that there was nowhere for the couple to stay. The town was filled with individuals who had come to be registered much as Mary and Joseph had. They made do with what was available and set up in the manger, where Mary immediately went into labor and gave birth to our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

Their stay in Bethlehem was short-lived, however, due to King Herod's fear of the promised power of Jesus. An angel in the night warned Joseph to leave Bethlehem, and so he took Mary and Jesus and did precisely that. Joseph and Mary's flight to Egypt would start a series of important events in the life of Jesus Christ .

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Map of Central Israel showing Nativity routes

Click on add map to cart button below shopping cart..

This is my map of Central Israel, showing two possible routes that Mary and Joseph may have taken when they journeyed from Nazareth in Galilee (Northern Israel) to Bethlehem (Southern Israel) just before the birth of Jesus.

Date First Century A.D.

Notice the figures on the border of the map. If you look carefully at the map border you will see I have included some little black and white figures. I will add different figures to the borders of each map, adding characters that relate to the map subject.

Links to related Bible Cartoons in Matthew’s Gospel Click orange bars below to see the Bible Cartoon of Jesus’ birth in a stable in Bethlehem, on the BC Gallery page, with download & purchase options: Bible Cartoon: Matthew 02 – The Nativity SET 01 – Scene 04 – Jesus’ birth

Bible Cartoon: Matthew 02 – The Nativity SET 01 – Scene 04a – Just a stable?

Bible Cartoon: Matthew 02 – The Nativity SET 02 – Scene 04 – Jesus born in Bethlehem

Links to related Bible Cartoons in Luke’s Gospel Click orange bars below to see the Bible Cartoon of Jesus’ birth in a stable in Bethlehem, on the BC Gallery page, with download & purchase options: Bible Cartoon: Luke 02 – Nativity SET02- Scene 01 – Walking to Bethlehem (Dark version) Bible Cartoon: Luke 02 – Nativity SET02- Scene 01 – Walking to Bethlehem (Light version) Bible Cartoon: Luke 02 – Nativity SET02- Scene 01 – Riding to Bethlehem (Dark version) Bible Cartoon: Luke 02 – Nativity SET02- Scene 01 – Riding to Bethlehem (Light version)

Bible References Matthew 2:1-12 ( NLT ) 1 Jesus was born in the town of Bethlehem in Judea, during the reign of King Herod. About that time some wise men [1] from eastern lands arrived in Jerusalem, asking, 2 “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We have seen his star as it arose, [2] and we have come to worship him.”

[1] Or, royal astrologers; Greek reads magi; also in 2:7, 16.

[2] Or, in the east.

Luke 2:1-52 ( NLT ) 1 At that time the Roman emperor, Augustus, decreed that a census should be taken throughout the Roman Empire. 2 (This was the first census taken when Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 All returned to their own ancestral towns to register for this census. 4 And because Joseph was a descendant of King David, he had to go to Bethlehem in Judea, David’s ancient home. He traveled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee. 5 He took with him Mary, his fiancée, who was now obviously pregnant.

6 And while they were there, the time came for her baby to be born. 7 She gave birth to her first child, a son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them.

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The Journey: From Nazareth to Bethlehem

In my trip to the Holy Land to research my book, The Journey , we traveled by car, by van, and on foot as we sought to follow the journey Mary and Joseph would have taken from Nazareth to Bethlehem.   Their journey began with a descent from the hills of Nazareth to the smooth plain of the Jezreel Valley. You can see this area in today’s video (posted below). This would have been the easiest part of the journey and may have taken the first two days. This valley was the location of so many ancient battles that it became synonymous with war and bloodshed. The writer of Revelation saw the final, apocalyptic battle between good and evil—the battle of Armageddon—taking place here. (Armageddon means “hill of Megiddo,” with Megiddo being a city built upon a hill along the Jezreel Valley—see Revelation 16:16). As we passed through this valley, I was reminded that the child in Mary’s womb would be called the Prince of Peace; yet it was also this child who John claimed would one day return, riding on a white horse, to wage a righteous war against evil and ultimately to triumph over it (Revelation 19:11-16).   As Mary and Joseph began the slow ascent from the Jezreel Valley, they would have walked past mile after mile of olive trees, planted in groves along the road. The oldest of the trees that still exist today are said to date back to the time of Christ. The olive trees, like the journey itself, bore witness to the child in Mary’s womb. The extra-virgin oil from the olives was used in the anointing of kings; in fact, the word Messiah means Anointed One. (The Greek word Christ means the same.) Pouring or smearing sacred oil on a person or an object signified that the individual or object was holy to God and set apart for God’s purposes.   Kings were typically anointed by the high priest, though David was anointed by Samuel the prophet. Jesus, however, was anointed by a prostitute in Luke 7:36-50 and by Lazarus’s sister Mary in John 11:1-2 (and presumably in Mark 14:3). These incidents were important statements about Jesus’ concern for sinners and those whom Jewish society considered to be second class; Jesus valued these persons so highly that they were given the privilege of anointing him as king.   After several days, the journey to Bethlehem would have become more challenging, following the ancient road that curved back and forth as it ascended and descended the hills and mountains of central Israel. Each day’s journey would have ended at a spring or well that could provide for the needs of all the people and animals in the caravan. We stopped at two such places, Jacob’s Well in Sychar, where Jesus met the Samaritan woman.   The grade of the city of Sychar has risen over the centuries with the destruction and rebuilding of city upon city. Today, the well is beneath a magnificent church built by the Russian Orthodox. Descending a set of steps to the left of the altar, visitors come to a room with an ancient well. There, a bucket is attached to a rope, and when lowered for what must be one hundred feet, it finally takes on water. As I drew water from the well, I imagined Joseph and Mary drinking from this same water source as they rested here for the night. Little did Mary know that thirty-three years later, the child in her womb would stand here, offering living water to a Samaritan woman.   Mary and Joseph continued on their journey from Sychar, traveling for the next three days over ever-higher hills. For Mary, this would have been the most difficult and uncomfortable part of the journey. The Holy Family would have been traveling now for seven days. “Soon,” Joseph must have assured Mary, “we’ll be going down to Bethel, and then on to Jerusalem and Bethlehem. We’re going to make it. You’ll be fine, Mary.”   On the afternoon of the ninth day, or early on the morning of the tenth, Mary and Joseph finally must have seen Jerusalem. I can only imagine how they felt as they saw the Holy City spread out before them. Jerusalem was of course much smaller in the first century. It was a city set upon a hill—actually multiple hills— but the eye was naturally drawn to one hill, Mount Moriah, where the Temple rose high above everything else.   From Jerusalem, it would have been only a few hours’ walk to Bethlehem, across several miles of arid desert and some hills. Finally, on perhaps the tenth day of their journey, they would have arrived in Bethlehem.

                                                              ~~~

Today's post is an excerpt from The Journey . For more information, visit The Journey website at journeythischristmas.com .

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Living the Catholic life, always and everywhere for God

What Was Mary and Joseph’s Journey to Bethlehem Like?

December 23, 2023 by Deacon Frederick Bartels 8 Comments

Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem was no easy trip. After such a long, dangerous and grueling journey, Mary and Joseph arrived in Bethlehem, a name which means “house of bread.” It is fitting that the Christ-Child born there is the bread of life who gives himself—his flesh and blood—as food for eternal life.

By Deacon Frederick Bartels 12 January 2019

When we think of Christmas, we often think of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem, the city of David in which Jesus was born. The pregnant and delicate Mary riding on a donkey, Joseph confidently leading the way as her husband and protector with staff in hand, the demanding and dangerous trip to Bethlehem, finding no room available at the inn upon their arrival and thus giving birth to Jesus in a cave that served as a stable. But what would the trip to Bethlehem have been like for Mary and Joseph and the Child in her womb?

To answer that question, we have to begin by considering what Mary was like. When we think of her, we often think of pious images of a delicate, light-skinned woman adorned in unblemished, ornate robes whose hands never saw a day of laundry. As wonderful as these sacred images are, they cannot possibly convey accurately the real Mary as a poor first-century Palestinian Jewish girl—albeit a singularly extraordinary one.

Read: A Christmas Reflection on Trust in Providence.

There’s no reason to think Mary was anything but intimately familiar with long days of hard work, as were other Jewish women of her place and time whose daily lives entailed various challenges far removed from technologically advanced, modern-day lives in first world nations. Mary likely began her day at sunrise by preparing a meal, perhaps of bread and olive oil with dried fish. Water needed to be carried and stored for drinking, cleaning, bathing and washing clothes. Food, such as ground wheat-flour, had to be collected and prepared; firewood gathered for cooking and providing warmth in winter; clothes laundered. Consequently, Mary’s work-day was perhaps ten hours long. To keep up, she had to be strong and efficient.

Joseph would be no less familiar with tough times and demanding labor. His days as a tradesman—a carpenter—began at sunup and continued until the light had gone or nearly so. He was strong and resilient, with rough, calloused hands.

It’s likely neither Mary nor Joseph were literate, as was typical of the majority of people in their day. They would have spoke Aramaic and had a familiarity with Latin and Greek. Some historical scholars believe that, in Nazareth, Mary and Joseph lived in what might be described as a small housing complex, as was often typical. It consisted of perhaps four small, one-room houses made of stone with dirt floors, connected by a central courtyard used for cooking and gathering. It was often the case that family members or kin shared these complexes, which helped them—especially the women—to share the heavy load of daily tasks.

Mary and Joseph, of course, lived under the burden of Roman judicial and military rule. They were taxed by both Temple and Rome; they had firsthand experience with the painful gap of inequality between rich and poor, and the oppressive economic and social policies of the Roman Empire:

The social and economic policy of the Roman Empire could well be summarised in a phrase: “the Roman system of inequality.” Governing the entire Mediterranean world, Rome maintained its domination through judicial institutions developing legislation concerning property ownership and labour control – and through the use of brutal force. The whole system was based heavily on the inequality of people, which was thought to be either natural or at least inevitable, in order to secure peace and stability in the society. Häkkinen, Sakari. (2016). Poverty in the first-century Galilee. HTS Theological Studies, 72(4), 1-9.

Yet the society in which Mary and Joseph lived was not at all stable, let alone peaceful. All of this serves as a backdrop for the 90 mile journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem—initiated by Joseph’s requirement to participate in a Roman census. Mary and Joseph were familiar with hardship, which means the journey, as difficult and grueling as it was, would not have greatly intimidated the Holy Family.

But what was it like? Do we really have any idea? Probably not. It was difficult, strenuous and highly dangerous. The gospels fail to convey just how challenging it was. James Strange , a New Testament and biblical archeology professor, had this to say: Writers of the gospels of Matthew and Luke “are so laconic about the [Nativity] event because they assume the reader would know what it was like. [W]e have no idea how difficult it was.”

How long would it have taken to travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem? People could perhaps travel about twenty miles a day. However, given Mary’s late stage of pregnancy, that number would have been much less, perhaps around ten miles a day. This means their journey likely took place over a ten-day period.

The hazards were many. Wild animals, bandits, desert robbers—all these and more factored into the nature of the trip. The valley of the Jordan river was a forested refuge for lions, bears and wild boar. Archeologists have uncovered signs warning travelers of these kinds of dangers ( ibid .).

Assuming the Holy Family traveled in winter and Jesus was born in December (there’s no hard evidence indicating he was not), it’s possible the Holy Family may have encountered cold temperatures. The record low for Bethlehem is 25° (since these records have been maintained, which is only recently). However, severe weather in the area of Nazareth and Bethlehem is rare. Normally in December and January, lows are around 41° with highs into the upper 40s and above (temperatures can reach into the 70s). Nevertheless, their travel experience was far different than it is today, lacking, as it did, modern-day conveniences made possible by a broad network of paved roads and automobiles. Consequently, warm clothing would be required for nighttime temperatures and a fire would need to be lit for warmth and to help stave off hungry predators. Additionally, rain is possible in the wet season, which runs from October through April.

For provisions, Mary and Joseph would have relied on bread, herbs and oil, with perhaps some dried fish as an extra protein-boosting treat. Water would need to be carried, perhaps in wineskins.

After such a long, dangerous and grueling trip, Mary and Joseph arrived in Bethlehem, a name which means “house of bread.” It is fitting that the Christ-Child born there is the bread of life who gives himself—his flesh and blood—as food for eternal life. But, due to the census, Bethlehem is overcrowded. There is no room in the inn. There is no room for Mary and Joseph anywhere, except in a cave—likely on the lower level of the inn—used as a stable to house animals, probably the very animals travelers had relied upon to get to Bethlehem, travelers who perhaps had arrived earlier and were staying at the inn.

The omnipotent Creator of the universe assumes human flesh and is born of a poor, young Jewish virgin named Mary, birthed in a stable and laid in a manger of poverty. Heaven comes down to earth. The light of humanity enters the world through the womb of Mary, the Mother of God, where men shun and reject him. God becomes man and takes the form of a slave in service to all. And, all the while, the cross stands erect on the horizon of his earthly life as Jesus of Nazareth.

All of this takes place in order to restore humankind to communion with God. What mystery. What love!

Merry Christmas.

Photo Credit: Pixabay, free use photo.

This post was updated on 14 January 2019 to better reflect temperature conditions in the areas of Nazareth and Bethlehem.

Deacon Frederick Bartels is a member of the Catholic clergy who serves the Church in the diocese of Pueblo. He holds an MA in Theology and Educational Ministry and is a Catholic educator, public speaker, and evangelist who strives to infuse culture with the saving principles of the gospel. For more, visit YouTube , iTunes and Twitter .

Reader Interactions

November 1, 2020 at 03:38

thank you for your writing I have been doing an independent study of Jesus Birth I always figure that there travel would have been a long tough road so to speak. I wonder if they traveled alone or with a group. the Bible does not seem to say. I would think they did because of the dangers. Luke talks about the travel and that when they were in Bethlehem and when it was time for her to give birth there was no room in the Inn. My understanding from what I read was the Inns had no separate room just drape or rug separating floor space and that giving birth would be a difficult and she gave birth in the stable below the inn using a manger as a crib. I am of the understanding the stables were below the inn so that the heart of the animals would rise and warm the Inn. I would love to read more and if available please forward info, Thank you

November 9, 2020 at 19:02

Thank you for this information. It gives a wonderful realistic view of our Lord’s birth. I will be putting some of this information to use this holiday season. I’m trying something new with my family and we will be camping several days over Christmas. Christmas Eve, we will fast and pray and discuss as a family the reality of what Mary and Joseph went through. Christmas day we will celebrate using foods that would have been eaten by the Holy Family. We will sing happy birthday to Jesus and rather than exchange gifts we will have have a treasure hunt for our children. They will be given clues on gold stars and a small baby doll (Jesus) will be hidden. They will search for baby Jesus and the one who finds him will place him in a manger we will set up. A very different Christmas than what my family is used to!

December 8, 2020 at 04:37

Tina, I would love to hear how this different CHristmas goes with your family, I will pray that it will be a meaningful one.

December 19, 2020 at 22:53

Thank you for writing the truth of our Lords birth. And the hardships and Faith Mary and Joseph had. It is easy to commercialize the birth. But as Christian’s, I believe we need to realize the actual hardships they faced. Also to realize the actual commitment of Christianity.

December 21, 2021 at 09:54

I loved this!

November 15, 2022 at 18:32

There is actually ample evidence to prove Jesus was most likely born in September. Do your Berean job and consider when Johns father was told his wife would have a son. Take everything from that moment and add 6 Months for how many Months along Elizabeth was when Mary visited her, and I believe you will agree with me that September is more accurate, and besides, in the Winter, the sheep are not kept out at night in the Winter around Bethlehem, too cold.

November 23, 2022 at 07:51

Chuck Ness,

Did you read the article? Lows in December in and around Bethlehem are normally in the 40s. That’s plenty warm for sheep. The worn out idea that it was too cold for the sheep to be pastured at that time of year has been proven wrong time and time again.

December 28, 2022 at 07:23

Thank you for your article. Re the time of year of Jesus birth – we read in Luke’s gospel that the shepherds were out in the fields keeping watch over their flocks – from this we can know that the shepherds were village rather than nomadic shepherds (the sheep of nomadic shepherds would have grazed the wilderness). Also the time of year – sheep were put out in the fields after the harvest, to graze on whatever was left. This would have bee in the fallow period of approx July – October. So it’s very unlikely that Jesus was born in December as the crops would have been planted.

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Pope st. john paul ii:.

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A website dedicated to exhibiting 19th and 20th century photographs of the middle east and north africa.

Palestine’s Nativity Trail: A Journey Through History

The Nativity Trail from Nazareth to Bethlehem

Looking over the Jordan Valley from near the Palestinian village of Duma

The Nativity Trail, one of the most famous of the bible’s epic journeys, is the trek that Joseph and Mary took from Nazareth to Bethlehem where Jesus was born. According to the biblical account, as it appeared in Luke 2:1-7, Joseph was forced to travel to his hometown to register in a Roman census conducted for tax purposes. Although some historians are skeptical of Luke’s account, under the premise that Roman law required individuals to register in their place of residence not their place of origin, an entire faith has adopted this journey as factual.

The trail received renewed attention in the year 2000 as part of a larger initiative to renovate Christian sites in the Holy Land for the millennium. However, due to the second Intifada or Palestinian uprising, the trail was inaccessible between 2002 and 2008. Since then, a steady stream of pilgrims, hikers, and visitors who are curious and bold enough to discover an alternative Palestine have taken interest in the Nativity Trail. The hike loosely follows the biblical account, but is not meant as an attempt to replicate it. Nonetheless, it takes travelers through lands and scenery that to this day evoke tales and narratives symbolic to so many across the world.

In addition, the journey exposes visitors to the lives of those who have called these lands home for centuries. Besides the well-known sites, the trek includes stops in towns, villages, refugee camps, and Bedouin settlements that are not average tourist destinations, exposing them to the daily struggles of people who are striving to preserve their identity, heritage, and way of life.

Below are four articles written by Zina Hemady and photos by Norbert Schiller . The articles, which cover different segments of the trail, feature comparative views showing present day images alongside photos taken in the nineteenth and early twentieth century of many of the sites and landscapes located along the trail.

The historical images were taken by Bonfils, Zangaki, Frank Mason Good, Francis Frith, Karl Gröber, Underwood & Underwood, American Colony Jerusalem, Luigi Fiorello, and W. Hammerschmidt all of whom traveled extensively through the Holy Land in the mid to late 1800s.

Unless otherwise noted, the contemporary photographs were taken with a Leica M6 camera and Kodak Ektar 100 ASA color film.

PHOTO EXHIBITION

Nativity trail in pictures:.

Part I: Nazareth to Zababdeh

Part II: Zababdeh to Nablus

Part III: Nablus to Jericho

Part IV: Jericho to Bethlehem

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• Lenten Prayers
• 7 Penitential Psalms
• Lenten Psalms SUN
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• Lenten Psalms TUE
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• Lenten Laughs
• First Word on Cross
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• Jewish Crowd
• Annas & Caiphas
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• The Last Days of Christ
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• Saturday in Holy Week
• Virtues for Easter
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• Resurrected People
• Easter with Dom Gueranger
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• What Happened Next?
• 2023 Synod Final Document
• Lepanto-Part 1
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• Daily Rosary Meditation
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• Mary's Keepsake--Scapular
• Brown Scapular FAQs
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• History of All Souls Day
• The Four Last Things
• Unpublished Manuscript on Purgatory
• Stories of Purgatory
• Read Me, or Rue It
• Saints on Purgatory
• Legion in China
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• Catechism Lesson 1
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• Catechism Lesson 5
• Catechism Lesson 6
• Catechism Lesson 7
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• Catechism Lesson 11
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• Catechism Lesson 15
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• Catechism Lesson 18
• Catechism Lesson 19
• Catechism Lesson 20
• Catechism Lesson 21
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• Bible Study Lesson #1
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• Bible Study Lesson #3
• FOOD--Our Lady's Nativity Menu
• Seven Sorrows
• SFOM-Sep 08
• SFOM-Sep 12
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• Finding of the True Cross
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• Brown Scapular Miracles
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• Miracles of Lourdes
• Solar Miracle, Fatima
• Fatima, Portugal (1917)
• Lourdes, France (1858)
• La Salette, France, (1846)
• Shrine of Bethlehem
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• Shrine of Lanciano
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• Shrine of La Salette
• Shrine of Walsingham
• Shrine of Nazareth
• St. Patrick's Purgatory
• End Times Chronology
• Prophecy Rules
• Prophecy Don Bosco 1
• St. Raphael the Archangel
• St. Michael the Archangel
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• Guardian Angels
• Are Few Souls Saved?
• Conspiracy Theories
• CCC Crazy Comments Critiqued
• Synod Final Document
• Synod Sequel
• Pagan Idols Destroyed
• Synod Daily Update
• Synod's Instrumentum Laboris
• Liberalism & Modernism
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• The Francis Pages
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• Danger of Ignorance (Pius X)
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• Catholic Action (Pius X)
• Another TITANIC Disaster?
• The "Errors of Russia"
• CRISIS PRAYERS
• The Anger Room
• Christ the King Encyclical
• Christ the King Consecration
• Nativity Part 1
• Mary Life Pt. 1
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• Mary Life Pt. 4
• Mary Life Pt. 8
• Spiritual Gym
• Coronavirus and Catholicism
• USA Catholic History
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• Irish Catholics in USA
• Machabean Resistance
• The Cenacle or Upper Room
• Sins of the Tongue
• Fatima in Lucia's Own Words
• The Glories of Mary (St. Alphonsus Liguori)
• At the Foot of the Cross (Fr. Faber)
• Marriage (Leo XIII)
• Marriage (Pius XI)
• Coloring Pages
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• Advent Countdown
• Advent with Aquinas
• Advent with Gueranger
• Advent Sermons
• Journey to Bethlehem
• Antiphon-1 O Sapientia
• Antiphon-2 O Adonai
• Antiphon-3 O Radix Jesse
• Antiphon-4 O Clavis David
• Antiphon-5 O Oriens
• Antiphon-6 O Rex Gentium
• Antiphon-7 O Emmanuel
• Advent Prayers
• Advent Prayers SUN
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• Epiphany Explained
• Christmas with Aquinas
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• Candles & Candlemas
• Christmas Sermons
• Christmas Prayers SUN
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• First Day of Christmas
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• Eleventh Day of Christmas
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• Suggestions for Christmas
• Food For Thought
• Election Rosary Novena
• Day 01 Church-Pope Novena
• Day 02 Church-Pope Novena
• Day 03 Church-Pope Novena
• Day 04 Church-Pope Novena
• Day 05 Church-Pope Novena
• Day 06 Church-Pope Novena
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• Day 08 Church-Pope Novena
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• Day 13 Church-Pope Novena
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• Day 15 Church-Pope Novena
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• Day 18 Church-Pope Novena
• Day 19 Church-Pope Novena
• Day 20 Church-Pope Novena
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• Day 23 Church-Pope Novena
• Day 24 Church-Pope Novena
• Day 25 Church-Pope Novena
• Day 26 Church-Pope Novena
• Day 27 Church-Pope Novena
• Day 28 Church-Pope Novena
• Day 29 Church-Pope Novena
• Day 30 Church-Pope Novena
• Day 31 Church-Pope Novena
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• Day 33 Church-Pope Novena
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• Day 48 Church-Pope Novena
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• Day 53 Church-Pope Novena
• Day 54 Church-Pope Novena
• Day 1 Penance Novena
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