What does Luke 1:36 mean?

And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. Luke 1:36

Explanation

Luke 1:36 contains a statement made by the angel Gabriel to Mary during the Annunciation, when Gabriel appeared to her to announce that she would give birth to Jesus. In this verse, Gabriel reveals to Mary that her relative Elisabeth has also miraculously conceived a son in her old age. Elisabeth, who was believed to be barren, is in the sixth month of her pregnancy. This information serves to strengthen Mary’s faith in God’s power and to connect the miraculous births of John the Baptist and Jesus, as Elisabeth’s son would become known as John the Baptist.

Historical Context

The Gospel of Luke was written in the context of Greco-Roman culture, during the early spread of Christianity. It is generally dated to the late first century AD and intended for a Gentile audience. The historical climate included expectations of a Messiah and miraculous occurrences within Jewish tradition, as well as a focus on genealogies and familial relationships. At the time, being barren was considered a disgrace for women due to the cultural emphasis on procreation.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse affirms the theme of God’s intervention in human history and the reversal of human conditions. The conception of John, despite Elisabeth’s barrenness and old age, showcases God’s ability to perform miracles and upend societal expectations. Protestant, Catholic, and Orthodox interpretations celebrate Elisabeth’s faith, as well as God’s grace in preparing the way for Jesus through John’s birth and ministry.

Practical Applications

The teachings from this verse highlight the belief in hope and the possibility of change regardless of seemingly impossible circumstances. It encourages the faithful to trust in divine providence and timing. On a personal level, it can inspire individuals to persevere through challenges and maintain faith in the midst of uncertainty or societal pressures.

Cross-References

• Luke 1:7: “And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren, and they both were now well stricken in years.”
• Luke 1:37: “For with God nothing shall be impossible.”
• Hebrews 11:11: “Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised.”

Language Study

The key words in the original Greek text include:

• “Cousin” (συγγενίς, syngenís): Relative or kin.
• “Conceived” (καὶ συλλαμβάνω, kai syllambanó): Became pregnant.
• “Barren” (στεῖρος, steiros): Unable to bear children.
• “Old age” (γῆρας, gēras): Old or advanced in years. This language underscores the miraculous nature of Elisabeth’s conception.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The miraculous conception draws parallels to other ancient stories where deities or divine intervention results in unexpected births (e.g., Sarah in the Jewish tradition, who conceives Isaac despite old age). This theme of divine intervention is common across various mythologies and religious narratives, highlighting a cultural fascination with the miraculous and the overturning of natural law.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern science might address the issue of barrenness using reproductive technology or geriatric pregnancies. However, it typically does not account for miraculous events as described in religious texts. Such conceptions are matters of faith rather than empirical investigation, and they exist outside the purview of scientific explanation.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians have provided varied interpretations of this verse. Many emphasize God’s power to effect change in human conditions and His sovereignty over life and natural processes. Commentators often note the miraculous aspect of the conception as an important prelude to the even greater miracle of the virgin birth of Jesus. Some scholars also point to the cultural significance of childbirth and the lineage of Jesus being linked through kinship to John the Baptist.