Quirinius, the governor listed in Luke 2:2, seems to have been a trouble-shooter for Caesar Augustus, serving in several problem areas. He was governor of Crete and Cyrene in 14 B.C. and of Galatia from 6 until 2 B.C. He next served in Syria—most likely from 2 B.C.—later becoming legate in 6 A.D. with direct responsibility over both Judea and Samaria, as a part of Syria. 

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It seems Quirinius served twice in Syria in offices that we can correctly translate governor—ten years apart. Critics of Luke’s dating have concentrated on Quirinius’ later service (as legatus) when a local registration for taxation caused a public uprising. Most likely the missing years were also under the administration of Quirinius, but with a lower grade (praesus) than legate. He was either praesus or quaestor (imperial commissioner.) Both Greek words are rendered governor in English. 

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The “taxation” referenced by Luke would fit the census that was empire wide in preparation for declaring Caesar Augustus, “Father of the Nation,” rather than the later tax rebellion under Quirinius. Quirinius returned to Rome in 12 A.D., to serve as an advisor to Tiberius until he died in 21 A.D.  

 

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