Yes, according to the Christian tradition, Mary and Joseph were betrothed to each other before Jesus was born. Betrothal in ancient Jewish culture was a formal arrangement similar to engagement, but more binding. During this period, the couple was considered legally married, even though they hadn't yet consummated the marriage.
The Gospel of Matthew and the Gospel of Luke in the New Testament of the Bible both recount the story of the birth of Jesus. According to these accounts, Mary was a virgin when she conceived Jesus through the Holy Spirit, while betrothed to Joseph.
Here's a brief overview of the events based on the Gospels:
- Mary and Joseph were from the town of Nazareth.
- The angel Gabriel visited Mary and informed her that she would conceive a son through the Holy Spirit and that she should name him Jesus.
- Joseph, being a righteous man, initially considered quietly ending the betrothal when he learned of Mary's pregnancy but was then visited by an angel in a dream.
- The angel reassured Joseph that Mary's pregnancy was a result of divine intervention and that he should take her as his wife and name the child Jesus.
- Joseph obeyed the angel's instructions and married Mary but abstained from any physical relationship with her until after the birth of Jesus.
In summary, Mary and Joseph were betrothed before Jesus' birth, and Joseph eventually took Mary as his wife following divine guidance. This story is a significant event in Christian belief and is celebrated as the Annunciation and the Nativity of Jesus.