In New Testament times, a Jewish boy's early training would revolve around the sacred Hebrew Scriptures, the Law of Moses, the Torah, forming the basis of his schooling.
The Hebrew school would be in the local synagogue, and the instruction—commenced at home—would now be in the charge of the synagogue schoolmaster. The father, as head of the family, would supervise the home instruction, including apprenticeship to a trade, from which traditional teaching excused no Jewish lad. The references to Jesus as "the carpenter's son" (Matt. 13:55) and "the carpenter" (Mark 6:3) indicate his family occupation. In the metaphors of his later teaching may be found hints of this work, for the plough, the beam, and the ox yoke would all come from the carpenter's shop, where work would demand precision and skill as well as physical strength.
The village of Nazareth, the scene of Jesus' childhood, overlooked the rich plains and fertile valleys of Galilee. Though the little town was humble and secluded, the busy activity of trade and travel came close by.
