Luke Chapter 2, Verse 24
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24: και του δουναι θυσιαν κατα το ειρημενον εν νομω κυριου ζευγος τρυγονων η δυο νεοσσους περιστερων
24: And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in
the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young
pigeons.
24: And to offer a sacrifice, according as it is written in the law of
the Lord, a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons:
And to offer a sacrifice, &c. Those who were able on such an occasion
were required to offer a lamb for a burnt-offering, and a pigeon or a
turtle-dove for a sin-offering. If not able to bring a lamb, then
they were permitted to bring two turtle-doves or two young pigeons,
Lev 12:6, Lev 12:8.
Turtle-doves. Doves distinguished for having a plaintive and tender voice. By Mary's making this offering she showed her poverty; and Jesus, by coming in a state of poverty, has shown that it is not dishonourable to be poor.
If it be asked why, since Jesus was pure from any moral defilement in his conception and birth, it was necessary to offer such a sacrifice; why was it necessary that he should be circumcised, since he had no sin, it may be answered --
1st. That it was proper to fulfil all righteousness, and to show obedience to the law, Mt 3:15.
2nd. It was necessary for the future usefulness of Christ. Unless he had been circumcised, he could not have been admitted to any synagogue or to the temple. He would have had no access to the people, and could not have been regarded as the Messiah. Both he and Mary, therefore, yielded obedience to the laws of the land, and thus set us an example that we should walk in their steps. Comp. See "Mt 3:15".
