STRONGS NT 3502: νοσσόςνοσσός, see νεοσσός.

Strong’s Greek 3502 denotes the “young pigeon,” a common sacrificial bird in Israel’s worship. The term appears once in the Greek New Testament (Luke 2:24) but draws on a rich Old Testament backdrop that illumines the infancy narrative of Jesus Christ and the gracious provision of God for the poor.

Old Testament Background

In the Law of Moses, the “young pigeon” is repeatedly listed as an acceptable substitute for costlier animal offerings. Examples include the purification rites after childbirth (Leviticus 12:8), sin offerings for those unable to afford a lamb (Leviticus 5:7), cleansing from skin disease (Leviticus 14:22 – 31), and the Nazirite’s conclusion of vows (Numbers 6:10). By allowing an inexpensive bird, the LORD ensured that every Israelite—regardless of economic status—could approach Him with a sacrifice “without defect” (Leviticus 5:7), highlighting His concern that worship be accessible to all.

New Testament Usage

Luke records that Mary and Joseph offered “a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons” at the temple after Jesus’ birth (Luke 2:24). Their choice of the lower-cost option underlines both their modest means and their meticulous obedience to the Law (Luke 2:21-24). In a single verse, Luke links the humble origins of the Messiah with centuries of covenant practice.

Typological and Theological Insights

1. Identification with the Humble: The infant Jesus is welcomed into Israel’s worship not by a costly ram but by the simplest of sacrifices, foreshadowing His ministry among the poor (Luke 4:18).
2. Fulfillment of the Law: By offering what the Law prescribed, Joseph and Mary testify that the One “born under the Law” (Galatians 4:4) would also fulfill it perfectly.
3. Anticipation of a Final Sacrifice: Repeated mention of small birds throughout Levitical regulations points to the provisional nature of these offerings. The ultimate, once-for-all sacrifice would come through Christ Himself (Hebrews 10:10).

Worship and Sacrificial System

The presence of young pigeons in the sacrificial code embodies divine equity. Whether a worshiper could bring a bull (Leviticus 1:3-5) or merely a handful of flour (Leviticus 5:11), all found equal footing before God. Luke’s use of 3502 therefore reminds readers that Christ’s advent upholds every nuance of the Law while simultaneously inaugurating a new era in which “a broken and contrite heart” (Psalm 51:17) is the acceptable sacrifice.

Practical Ministry Reflection

Pastoral application emerges in at least three areas:
• Mercy Ministry: God’s allowance for economical offerings challenges the church to remove barriers for the economically disadvantaged.
• Family Discipleship: Joseph and Mary’s obedience models parental faithfulness; families today should likewise prioritize scriptural instruction and worship.
• Christ-Centered Preaching: The humble “young pigeon” offering serves as a lens to proclaim the greater humility of the cross, encouraging believers to imitate Christ’s lowliness (Philippians 2:5-8).

Thus, Strong’s 3502—though appearing only once in the New Testament—opens a window onto Levitical worship, underscores the poverty and piety of Jesus’ earthly parents, and magnifies the gracious heart of God who invites all people, rich or poor, to draw near through the perfect sacrifice of His Son.