Luk 2:8 | TNotes | STEP | 2:8 Shepherds were sometimes portrayed in Judaism as drifters and dishonest troublemakers. This stereotype was not universal, however; in the Old Testament, shepherds are usually viewed positively (e.g., Ps 23:1 ). Jesus came to common people such as these poor and humble peasants. • staying in the fields: This suggests warmer months of the year, perhaps March through November, though some shepherds stayed out year-round. The actual month of Jesus’ birth is unknown. • They were guarding their flocks against thieves and wild animals.

bPs 23:1►

‏ Luke 2:8

2:8 ^a Shepherds were sometimes portrayed in Judaism as drifters and dishonest troublemakers. This stereotype was not universal, however; in the Old Testament, shepherds are usually viewed positively (e.g., Ps 23:1 ^b). Jesus came to common people such as these poor and humble peasants.

• staying in the fields: This suggests warmer months of the year, perhaps March through November, though some shepherds stayed out year-round. The actual month of Jesus’ birth is unknown.

• They were guarding their flocks against thieves and wild animals.