The answer is: Egypt

Matt 2:14 - They departed immediately under the cover of darkness.

When you think about Egypt in the context of the Holy Family’s flight, it’s fascinating to unpack what that means. Egypt wasn't just any place; it was a land laden with rich history and deep-rooted symbolism for the Jewish people. This ancient civilization had long been both a refuge and a place of oppression. Remember Joseph's story? He was sold into slavery in Egypt by his brothers, yet God used that scenario to position him powerfully to save many lives during a famine (Genesis 37-50).

Fast forward to the time of Jesus, and it’s noteworthy that the return to Egypt speaks volumes about God's management of human history. In Matthew's Gospel, echoing the sentiments of Exodus, symbolic connections to the deliverance of the Israelites align with this escape. Just as the Israelites fled to Egypt during a famine, now Jesus, the Needy took refuge in this land due to impending danger.

Fun trivia point: Egypt was home to significant Jewish communities; in fact, some estimates say a large percentage of Jews lived there after the Babylonian exile, creating a vibrant culture of Greek-speaking Jewish life. While escaping to a place fraught with historical complexity, the parenting duo, Mary and Joseph, drew on their faith and courage that continued in the journey God had planned for their family amidst a perilous time. It beautifully illustrates how divine providence can direct unexpectedly through perilous paths.