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Luke's Reference to Census

Luke's Reference to Census

Luke’s reference to the census under Quirinius serves two purposes in his Gospel. First, it provides a date for the birth of Jesus. Second, it explains why Joseph and Mary were in Bethlehem at that time. The census under Quirinius was probably for purposes of taxation since the Romans exempted the Jews from military service. The requirement to return to one’s hometown, reflecting the patriarchal element in Hebrew religion, probably also reflects the general willingness of Caesar Augustus to let the Jews follow their own customs.

Elwell, Walter A., and Philip Wesley Comfort. Tyndale Bible dictionary 2001 : 260. Print. Tyndale Reference Library.

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