Matthew 1:16

The Genealogy of Jesus · Matthew 1:1–17
Read Matthew 1

Translations

Modern
…and Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.
Traditional
And Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.
Literal
…and Jacob begat Joseph, the husband of Mary, out of whom was begotten Jesus, the One being called Christ.
Latin
Jacob autem genuit Joseph virum Mariæ, de qua natus est Jesus, qui vocatur Christus.

Original

Greek
English
…and Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.

Notes

This family history follows Joseph, who is part of the family line of King David (see also study note on Luke 3:23–38).

The Old Testament is clearly the source for Matthew 1:1–11. Matthew probably also used royal records and oral traditions for 1:12–16.

This story shows how certain parts of the life of Jesus fulfilled Old Testament prophecies. This includes:

  • his family history and birth (chapter 1), and

  • the places he lived as a child (chapter 2).

The story also shows how efforts to stop the plan of God do not work (2:1–15; see also 27:62–66).

Parallels

Ruth 4:18–22 Luke 3:23–38

People

Jacob: Father of Joseph, the husband of Mary Jesus: The Son of God and Savior of the world Joseph: Husband of Mary and earthly father of Jesus Mary: Mother of Jesus; wife of Joseph

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Genealogy Genealogy of Jesus Christ Gospel of Matthew Jacob Joseph Messiah Ruth, Book of Virgin Birth of Jesus

Topics

Genealogies of Christ: Given Genealogy: To Jesus Jesus, the Christ: Genealogy of Jesus, the Christ: Incarnation of Jesus, the Christ: Names, Appellations, and Titles of: Christ Joseph: Husband of Mary: His Genealogy Mary: The Mother of Jesus The Human Nature of Christ is Proved by His: Birth The Human Nature of Christ: Genealogy of the Tribe of Judah: out Lord Sprang From