Background and Historical Context:

Quirinius, also known as Publius Sulpicius Quirinius, was a Roman aristocrat and military leader who played a significant role in the governance of the Roman provinces during the early first century AD. He is most notably mentioned in the context of the New Testament, specifically in the Gospel of Luke, in relation to the census that took place around the time of Jesus Christ's birth.

Biblical Reference:

The primary biblical reference to Quirinius is found in the Gospel of Luke. 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 situates the birth of Jesus within the historical framework of a Roman census, which required individuals to return to their ancestral towns for registration.

Historical Role and Governorship:

Quirinius's governorship of Syria is a subject of historical interest and debate. Historical records indicate that Quirinius was appointed as the governor of Syria around AD 6, following the deposition of Herod Archelaus. During his tenure, he conducted a well-documented census for tax purposes, which is corroborated by historical sources such as the Jewish historian Josephus. This census, however, occurred after the generally accepted date of Jesus' birth, leading to discussions among scholars regarding the timing and nature of the census mentioned in Luke.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the mention of Quirinius in the Gospel of Luke serves to anchor the narrative of Jesus' birth within a specific historical and political context. It underscores the fulfillment of prophecy and the divine orchestration of events leading to the Messiah's arrival. The census, as described in Luke, necessitated Joseph and Mary's journey to Bethlehem, thereby fulfilling the prophecy that the Messiah would be born in the city of David (Micah 5:2).

Scholarly Considerations:

The reference to Quirinius has been the subject of scholarly examination, particularly concerning the chronological challenges it presents. 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. Others suggest that the term "governor" may have been used in a broader sense, encompassing various administrative roles.

Conclusion:

While the historical details surrounding Quirinius and the census remain a topic of scholarly inquiry, the biblical account in Luke provides a crucial link between the historical events of the Roman Empire and the birth of Jesus Christ. Quirinius's role, as mentioned in the Gospel, highlights the intersection of divine prophecy and historical reality, affirming the sovereignty of God in the unfolding of redemptive history.Quirin'i-us (1 Occurrence)

Luke 2:2
This was the first numbering, which was made when Quirinius was ruler of Syria.
(See RSV)

Quirin'i-us (1 Occurrence)
Quirin'i-us. Quirinius, Quirin'i-us. Quit . Multi-Version Concordance
Quirin'i-us (1 Occurrence). Luke 2:2 This was the first numbering ...
/q/quirin'i-us.htm - 6k

Quit (12 Occurrences)

/q/quit.htm - 13k

Quirinius (1 Occurrence)

/q/quirinius.htm - 6k

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