Charles Ellicott Commentary Matthew 2:8

"And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search out exactly concerning the young child; and when ye have found [him,] bring me word, that I also may come and worship him." — Matthew 2:8 (ASV)

Bethlehem was only a short six miles from Jerusalem. The word “diligently” is better translated, as before, as exactly. So far as the mission became known, it would impress the people with the belief that he too shared their hopes and was ready to pay his homage to the new-born King.