2:34 for a sign. There are four “signs” associated with the birth of Christ: (1) the sign of the virgin birth (Isaiah 7:14); (2) the sign of the guiding star (Matthew 2:2); (3) the sign of the swaddling clothes (Luke 2:12); and (4) the sign of the stumbling stone (Luke 2:34). The opposition which would mark the entire life of Christ would begin with His birth, as Herod would seek, unsuccessfully, to slay Him. Many would fall over this “rock of offence” in Israel (I Peter 2:8), but many would rise again.

2:35 thy own soul. Mary, the mother of Jesus, would indeed feel the terrible sword of the evil one as her divine Son was impaled on the cross (see note on John 19:25-27).