Biblical Texts
This Gospel uniquely records the decree of Caesar Augustus that led to the journey to Bethlehem.
Gospel of Luke
This Roman emperor ruled during the time of Christ’s birth.
Caesar Augustus
The number of days in the Coptic Nativity Fast.
43
In the Old Testament, this Queen brought gifts similar to the Magi; of gold and spices to a King
Queen of Sheba
How many prophetic individuals (non-family) specifically recognized and spoke about the infant Jesus during His presentation in the Temple?
Two? (Simeon and Anna)
This prophet foretold that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem Ephrathah.
Micah
This language was commonly spoken by Jewish people in Palestine at the time of Jesus’ birth.
Aramaic
Why they are 43?
40 represents the days Moses fasted to receive the Word of God on stone, and 3 days was added to the fast to commemorate the miraculous moving of the Mukattam Mountain
This Old Testament matriarch is buried at the entrance of Bethlehem; her tomb is still a landmark today.
Rachel
How many times did an angel appear to Joseph in a dream throughout the Nativity and the flight to Egypt?
Four times? (1. To take Mary as his wife; 2. To flee to Egypt; 3. To return to Israel; 4. To turn aside to Galilee).
This Gospel identifies no physical birthplace but emphasizes Jesus heavenly origin.
Gospel of John
This language was widely used for trade and communication across the Roman Empire.
Greek
This biblical book is frequently read during Nativity services because of its Messianic prophecies.
Book of Isaiah
This is the hill or mount where the Temple stood in Jerusalem, which the Holy Family visited 40 days after the birth.
Mount Moriah (or the Temple Mount)
How many signs did the angel give the shepherds so they would know they found the right baby?
Two? (1. Wrapped in swaddling cloths; 2. Lying in a manger)
Only one Gospel records the visit of the Magi, without mentioning shepherds.
Gospel of Matthew
This early Christian feast later developed alongside the Nativity to celebrate Christ’s revelation to the nations.
Epiphany (or Theophany)
This reading from the Old Testament is frequently proclaimed during Nativity services: “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.”
Isaiah 9:2
This prophet's name is associated with the weeping that took place in Ramah following the "Massacre of the Innocents."
Jeremiah
How many times is it recorded that the shepherds spoke or made known the message they received from the angels?
Twice? (Once to everyone present at the manger, and once generally as they returned glorifying God).
This prophet's scroll was likely the one the Magi studied to know that "a Star shall come out of Jacob."
Balaam (or Numbers 24:17)
This Roman official governed Syria when the census connected to Jesus’ birth took place.
Quirinius
This Patriarch (Pope) of Alexandria is heavily quoted in the Kiahk Theotokias regarding the "One Nature of the Incarnate Logos."
St. Cyril of Alexandria (Cyril the Great)
Matthew 2:15 quotes this Old Testament prophet to explain why the Holy Family had to go to Egypt and return - "out of Egypt I called My son.", Prophet name is:
Hosea
When presenting Jesus in the Temple, what ritual Mary and Joseph performed, showing they were not wealthy.
sacrificing Two turtledoves or two young pigeons