Did Caesar Augustus Decree “that All the World Should be Taxed”?
The Taxation Census of Luke 2
During my childhood, it was my role to read the Christmas story before our family opened presents. We would do this on Christmas Eve. And I would dutifully read Luke 2:1–7 in the classic King James Version every year.
And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
(Luke 2:1–7, KJV)
Years later, I learned that many people don’t believe this account.
No such tax edict ever came from Caesar Augustus!
