As an expert in the field of religious studies, I can provide you with a detailed account of who was present at the birth of Jesus, according to the New Testament of the Bible.

The story of Jesus's birth is primarily found in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. It is important to note that the accounts in these Gospels are not always in complete agreement, and there are some variations in the details. However, both Gospels agree on the central figures present at the birth.

Step 1: English Answer

Mary and Joseph: The most central figures at Jesus's birth were Mary, a young woman who was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit, and Joseph, a carpenter to whom she was betrothed. According to the Gospel of Matthew, Joseph was a descendant of King David and was considered the legal father of Jesus.

The Shepherds: The Gospel of Luke describes how a group of shepherds were tending their flocks in the fields nearby when an angel of the Lord appeared to them, announcing the birth of Jesus, who is described as the Savior, Christ the Lord. The shepherds then went to Bethlehem to see the child and, after witnessing the event, spread the word about what they had seen and heard.

The Magi (Wise Men): The Gospel of Matthew also recounts the visit of the Magi, who were likely scholars or astrologers from the East. They followed a particular star, which is traditionally interpreted as a sign of the birth of a great king. Upon their arrival, they brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the child Jesus, recognizing him as a king and the prophesied Messiah.

Angels: While not physically present in the traditional sense, angels play a significant role in the narrative of Jesus's birth. An angel announced the birth to the shepherds, and a multitude of the heavenly host is said to have praised God and proclaimed peace on earth to people of good will.

Animals: It is often depicted in traditional nativity scenes that animals were present in the stable or manger where Jesus was born. While the Gospel accounts do not explicitly mention animals, it is plausible given the context of a manger being used as a temporary shelter for the newborn.

Other People in Bethlehem: While the Gospels do not provide specific details, it is reasonable to assume that there were other people in Bethlehem at the time of Jesus's birth, especially considering it was a census period that required people to return to their ancestral homes.

Herod the Great: Although not present at the birth, Herod the Great, the king of Judea at the time, plays a significant role in the narrative. Upon hearing of the birth of a potential rival to his throne, Herod sought to eliminate Jesus, leading to the flight of the Holy Family into Egypt.

Step 2: Divider

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In the days when Herod was king of Judea, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth in Galilee to announce to a virgin named Mary, who was betrothed to a man named Joseph, that a child would be born to her and she was to name him Jesus, for he would be the son of God and rule over Israel forever.read more >>