The Gospel of Luke 2 : 22 -- 39 relates that Mary was purified according to the religious law , followed by Jesus 's presentation in the Jerusalem temple .
This explains the formal names given to the festival .
The Gospel of Luke 2 : 22 -- 39 relates that Mary was purified according to the religious law , followed by Jesus 's presentation in the Jerusalem temple , and this explains the formal names given to the festival .