The answer is: False

The Bible would suggest otherwise (Luke 2 v 6). Arriving in town well before her due date would make more sense.

Ah, the birth of Jesus is wrapped in mystery and wonder, which leads to many fascinating details being overlooked! It’s often painted as if Mary and Joseph rolled into Bethlehem just in the nick of time, but that's not quite how scripture spells it out.

In Luke 2:6, the phrase "while they were there" suggests that they had time to settle in before the big moment. It’s not like a Christmas movie with Mary going into labor as they pull up! This revelation adds a new layer to our understanding of the Nativity story—perhaps they found lodging and had some semblance of preparation, making that silent night not quite so hectic.

Fun fact: Past scholars often focused intensely on the idea that Bethlehem was a humble birthplace. Interestingly, it can also voice a message about God's choosing of the marginalized—after all, the Word made flesh debuting in a stable among animals is quite a statement. Plus, Bethlehem itself carries a rich heritage; it’s linked to King David. Jesus, as a descendant of David, was born in the very place where that beloved king came from.

As the Christmas season gets richer in traditions, it's delightful to remember the nuances of the story—the pauses and anticipations that make these narratives resonate even centuries after they first unfolded!