Matthew 2:10
When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.
Original Language Analysis
ἰδόντες
they saw
G1492
ἰδόντες
they saw
Strong's:
G1492
Word #:
1 of 8
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
τὸν
G3588
τὸν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 8
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἀστέρα
the star
G792
ἀστέρα
the star
Strong's:
G792
Word #:
4 of 8
a star (as strown over the sky), literally or figuratively
ἐχάρησαν
they rejoiced
G5463
ἐχάρησαν
they rejoiced
Strong's:
G5463
Word #:
5 of 8
to be "cheer"ful, i.e., calmly happy or well-off; impersonally, especially as salutation (on meeting or parting), be well
Cross References
Psalms 105:3Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the LORD.Luke 2:10And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.Luke 2:20And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.Psalms 67:4O let the nations be glad and sing for joy: for thou shalt judge the people righteously, and govern the nations upon earth. Selah.Deuteronomy 32:13He made him ride on the high places of the earth, that he might eat the increase of the fields; and he made him to suck honey out of the rock, and oil out of the flinty rock;
Historical Context
Ancient travel was arduous and dangerous, requiring significant investment of time and resources. The magi's willingness to make this journey based on a star demonstrates remarkable faith and determination to find the promised King.
Questions for Reflection
- What does the contrast between the magi's journey and the priests' apathy reveal about true versus nominal faith?
- How far are you willing to go—spiritually and practically—to encounter Christ more fully?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The magi's 'exceeding great joy' at finding Christ demonstrates the proper response to divine revelation. Their journey, likely months long across hundreds of miles, shows persevering faith that endures hardship to reach Christ. This contrasts sharply with Jerusalem's religious leaders who had Scripture but lacked desire to walk five miles to Bethlehem to see the Messiah.