Topical Encyclopedia Quirinius, known formally as Publius Sulpicius Quirinius, was a Roman official who played a significant role in the governance of the province of Syria during the early first century AD. His name is most prominently mentioned in the context of the nativity narrative found in the Gospel of Luke, which situates the birth of Jesus Christ during the time of a census conducted under Quirinius's administration.Biblical Reference The Gospel of Luke provides the primary biblical reference to Quirinius in the context of the birth of Jesus. Luke 2:1-2 states: "Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that a census should be taken of the whole empire. This was the first census to take place while Quirinius was governor of Syria." This passage indicates that Quirinius was the governing authority in Syria when the Roman Emperor Augustus ordered a census of the entire Roman world, an event that led Joseph and Mary to travel to Bethlehem, where Jesus was born. Historical Context Quirinius's governorship is historically significant due to the Roman practice of conducting censuses for taxation and administrative purposes. The mention of a census under Quirinius has been a focal point for historical and theological discussions, as it provides a chronological marker for the birth of Jesus. Roman records indicate that Quirinius was appointed as governor of Syria around AD 6, which has led to debates regarding the timing of the census mentioned in Luke's Gospel. Some scholars propose that there may have been an earlier census or that Quirinius held a position of authority in Syria prior to his official governorship. Role and Responsibilities As governor of Syria, Quirinius was responsible for maintaining Roman order and overseeing administrative duties, including the collection of taxes. The census mentioned in Luke's Gospel would have been a significant undertaking, requiring the registration of individuals for taxation purposes. This aligns with the Roman practice of ensuring efficient governance and resource allocation across the empire. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the mention of Quirinius in the nativity narrative underscores the historical reality of Jesus's birth within the context of Roman rule. It highlights the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah's birth in Bethlehem, as foretold in Micah 5:2. The census, as a divinely orchestrated event, facilitated the fulfillment of these prophecies by bringing Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem at the precise time of Jesus's birth. Contemporary Discussions The reference to Quirinius in the Gospel of Luke has been the subject of scholarly examination, particularly concerning the historical accuracy and timing of the census. Conservative Christian scholars often emphasize the reliability of the biblical account, suggesting that any apparent discrepancies can be reconciled through a deeper understanding of historical and cultural contexts. The mention of Quirinius serves as a reminder of the intersection between divine providence and historical events, affirming the authenticity of the Gospel narrative. Nave's Topical Index Luke 2:2(And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) Nave's Topical Index Library The Birth of Jesus. The Chronology The Birth of Jesus. Ch. 2:1-20 The Time of his Appearance among Men. The Question at Issue The Birth of Jesus the Messiah was on this Wise... Supplementary Note to Chapter ii. The Year of Christ's Birth. The Gospel According to St. Luke Chronology of the Life of Christ. The High Priests of the Jews under whom Christ Taught. Resources Who was Annas in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgQuestions about Christmas | GotQuestions.org Who was Mephibosheth? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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