Nazareth

A town in southern Galilee, midway between the Sea of Galilee and the Mediterranean Sea.  It was Mary and Joseph’s hometown and where Jesus, who had been born in Bethlehem, lived until He was about 30 years old.   A person from this town could be called a Nazarene; this is distinct from a Nazarite.

After Jesus’ earthly ministry had begun and although many ‘home town’ people were initially astonished at His wisdom and miracles, they began to question how this was possible, and rejected His message (Mt 13:53-58; Jn 1:46).  Do we lose respect for others because we grew up with them or know their faults? 

See also: Nazarite.