MARY TRAVELING BY DONKEY

At the time of Jesus' birth, people traveled by foot or on an animal or cart. Nazareth to Bethlehem was 4 to 6 days journey, over rough tracks with wild animals and robbers. People often traveled in groups for their own protection.

Background Reading:

Luke 2:5

Mary travels with Joseph

5 He went there [Bethlehem] to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child.

More Information:

Donkey

We do not know the name or breed of the donkey that was used to carry Mary who was pregnant at the time with Jesus.

The trip from Nazareth to Bethlehem could have taken 4-6 days by foot to cover the 120 km or 90 miles.

Traveling in winter eg December would be unlikely because of the cold and rain.

If the census was take over a period could the time Joseph and Mary could have gone to Bethlehem and been in Jerusalem at One of the three feast all males were compelled to attend.

The three feasts were
1. Unleavened and bread [which included Passover] spring

2. Pentecost, late spring,

3.Tabernacles, autumn