(Faculty of Theology, University of the Free State, 2005) Retief, F. P.; Cilliers, J. F. G.; Hoffman, M. J. H.
English: In the past attempts to establish the date of birth of Jesus have led to proposed dates
as early as 20 BC but also as late as 2 AD. In this article the limited primary historical
sources are carefully examined and contemporary interpretations of these
sources are critically reviewed. Astronomical information concerning the so-called
“star of Bethlehem” is examined to determine to what extent it can contribute to a
more accurate pinpointing of the date of birth. This examination leads to the conclusion
that the date of birth of Jesus should be placed in 5 BC or 6 BC (between
March and November).