The Return from Egypt is a significant event in the biblical narrative, marking the end of the Holy Family's sojourn in Egypt and their return to the land of Israel. This event is primarily recorded in the Gospel of Matthew and holds theological and prophetic importance within the Christian tradition.

Biblical Account

The account of the Return from Egypt is found in Matthew 2:19-23. After the visit of the Magi, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, instructing him to take Mary and the child Jesus and flee to Egypt to escape King Herod's massacre of the infants in Bethlehem. The family remained in Egypt until the death of Herod. The Gospel of Matthew records:

"After Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt. 'Get up!' he said. 'Take the Child and His mother and go to the land of Israel, for those seeking the Child’s life are now dead.' So Joseph got up, took the Child and His mother, and went to the land of Israel." (Matthew 2:19-21)

Upon their return, Joseph was again warned in a dream and decided to settle in the region of Galilee, in a town called Nazareth, fulfilling what was spoken by the prophets: "He will be called a Nazarene" (Matthew 2:23).

Theological Significance

The Return from Egypt is seen as a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy. Matthew 2:15 cites Hosea 11:1, "Out of Egypt I called My Son," drawing a parallel between Israel's exodus from Egypt and Jesus' return. This typological interpretation underscores Jesus as the true Israel, the embodiment of God's covenant people, and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.

The event also highlights God's providential care and guidance. Through angelic messages, God directs Joseph, ensuring the safety and well-being of the Messiah. This divine intervention emphasizes the importance of Jesus' mission and the unfolding of God's salvific purposes.

Historical and Cultural Context

The journey to and from Egypt would have been arduous, reflecting the historical realities of travel in the ancient Near East. Egypt, a place of refuge for many throughout biblical history, provided a temporary sanctuary for the Holy Family. The return to Nazareth, a small and seemingly insignificant town, aligns with the biblical theme of God working through humble and unexpected means.

Prophetic Fulfillment

The reference to Jesus being called a Nazarene is not a direct quotation from the Old Testament but is understood to reflect the prophetic theme of the Messiah's humble and despised origins. Nazareth, a town of little repute, symbolizes the lowly status that Jesus would assume, fulfilling the messianic prophecies of a suffering servant.

Conclusion

The Return from Egypt is a pivotal moment in the early life of Jesus, rich with prophetic fulfillment and theological depth. It serves as a testament to God's faithfulness and the unfolding of His divine plan through the life and ministry of Jesus Christ.