Ben Hur · Chapter
The Annunciation to the Shepherds explained
Shepherds in the fields near Bethlehem experience a divine vision: an angel appears in a brilliant light, announcing the birth of Christ the Lord in the city of David.
What happens
Shepherds in the fields near Bethlehem experience a divine vision: an angel appears in a brilliant light, announcing the birth of Christ the Lord in the city of David. The angel tells them they will find the babe wrapped in swaddling-clothes, lying in a manger. A multitude of angels then appears, singing 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill towards men.' The shepherds go to Bethlehem, find the infant Jesus in a cave manger, worship him, and spread the news throughout the town.
Themes in this chapter
Miracle and Divine Intervention
The angelic annunciation, the supernatural light, and the heavenly chorus are direct divine interventions announcing the birth of the Savior.
Faith and Redemption
The shepherds' immediate faith in the angel's message and their worship of the Christ child exemplify simple, trusting faith in God's redemptive plan.
Characters to notice
- Joseph of Nazareth
Present in the cave with the newborn child; his face is moved when the shepherds arrive.
- Mary
The mother of Jesus; she receives the baby from the women and holds him as the shepherds worship.
- The Nazarene
The newborn Christ child, lying in a manger in swaddling-clothes.
Key passages
“Fear not: for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.”
Do not be afraid: I am bringing you joyful news that will be for everyone.
The angel's first words to the terrified shepherds, reassuring them and announcing the universal significance of Christ's birth.
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill towards men!”
Honor to God in heaven, and on earth peace and goodwill to all people.
The refrain sung by the multitude of angels, emphasizing divine glory and the promise of peace.