Book of Matthew - Chapter 2 - Verse 23

When Jesus and his family settled in the city of Nazareth, it was a fulfillment of the prophecy that he would be called a Nazarene. Throughout the Old Testament, there are various prophecies about the coming Messiah, including his upbringing in Nazareth. The city of Nazareth was a humble and insignificant place, not known for anything remarkable. By coming to dwell in Nazareth, Jesus fulfilled the prophecy and established his identity as the promised Messiah. The term "Nazarene" may also carry connotations of humility and simplicity, as Jesus led a humble life before embarking on his ministry. This verse further solidifies the validity of Jesus as the Messiah, as his very residence in Nazareth fulfills what was foretold by the prophets. It is a reminder of the meticulous fulfillment of biblical prophecies through the life of Jesus Christ.

Upon examining the theological interpretation of the verse 'And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene', it is important to note that the term 'Nazarene' is often associated with Jesus of Nazareth and his followers. The designation 'Nazarene' was used by early Christians to refer to Jesus as the one who fulfills the prophecies spoken by the prophets. The city of Nazareth itself held symbolic significance for the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, particularly in relation to the Messiah. The word 'Nazarene' is believed to be derived from the Hebrew word 'netzer', which means 'branch'. This connection to the concept of a 'branch' ties into the messianic prophecies found in the Old Testament, such as Isaiah 11:1 which speaks of a 'branch' coming from the line of Jesse. Therefore, the use of the term 'Nazarene' in this verse emphasizes Jesus' role as the promised Messiah who was foretold by the prophets of old.