Not an Inn, but a Room

At this time of year, when the story of Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem traditionally receives a great deal of attention, in the latest “Examined” feature I draw attention to the famous inn in Luke 2:7. Although in practical terms this is hardly an earth-shattering difference, it must be said that the word “inn” in this passage is a rather discordant rendering of the Greek word kataluma. This Greek word occurs three times in the NT.

Mark 14:14 And wheresoever he may be entering, say to the householder that ‘The Teacher is saying, “Where is My caravansary, where I may be eating the passover with My disciples?”‘

The “inn” in the story of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:34), however, corresponds to an entirely different Greek word (pandocheion). Confusing, then. Where Scripture uses identical or differing words, this should, as far as possible, also be reflected in our Bible translations.

In any case, there was no place for Joseph and Mary in “the room,” apparently referring to one particular, known lodging place for travelers. Perhaps it was the same as the stopping place “Geruth Chimham, which is near Bethlehem,” mentioned in Jeremiah 41:17.

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