The answer is: Two turtledoves or pigeons

Luke 2:22-24 - among the Jews, a mother would remain at home for about 40 days after the birth of a boy and about 80 days for a girl because she was considered unclean. After this she presented him as "holy to the Lord" and offered the sacrifice as according to the law.

When we delve into the details of Mary and Joseph's sacrifice upon the completion of her purification period, we find themselves incorporating key aspects of both Jewish tradition and the nature of humility. By offering two turtledoves or pigeons, they were adhering to Levitical law, which allowed for that particular sacrifice if a family couldn’t afford a lamb. This detail becomes a richer tapestry when we consider that this holy family demonstrated devotion despite their modest means.

It's fascinating how such seemingly simple elements of the story are filled with significance. Turtledoves are often associated with merit and sacrifice within the scriptures. Moreover, the choice of birds instead of a larger, more expensive animal did not diminish their offering's value. It showed that one doesn't need wealth to worship; even those of humble circumstances can make a meaningful offering.

As a fun bit of trivia, did you know that the mention of turtledoves and pigeons has echoes throughout the Bible? Outside of sacrifice, they appear symbolically during Psalm blessings and in the story of Noah, where a dove was sent to check if the floodwaters had receded. Thus, birds resonate in repeated themes of hope and blessings.

In the big picture of Jesus’s early life, this offering underscores a theme that resonates through the Gospel: God's grace extends universally, touching lives at every socioeconomic status. Each character plays a part in weaving a grand narrative of love, purity, and fulfillment of divine promise.