Chapter 12: Passover with Jesus, Joseph and Mary

1 Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover. 2 And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast.

3 And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it. 4 But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day's journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance. 5 And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him.

6 And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors over a bloody man fallen with caved head, both hearing them, and answering their questions. 7 And all that heard him were astonished at his revelations and actions.

8 And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with this man? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing.

9 And he said unto them, How else is it that I would have dealt with one risen? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business?

10 And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them or the reason for his killing the man.

11 And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept the killing in her heart. 12 And Jesus increased in strength and boldness, and in favour with God and man.