What does Luke 1:40 mean?

And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth. Luke 1:40

Explanation

Luke 1:40 describes an event in which Mary, the mother of Jesus, visits her relative Elisabeth. Upon arrival, Mary greets Elisabeth. The previous verses have set the stage for this encounter, indicating that both women are experiencing miraculous pregnancies: Elisabeth with John the Baptist and Mary with Jesus. This verse is significant because it leads to the joyful recognition of Mary’s role in God’s plan and the baby John’s leaping in Elisabeth’s womb, which is described in the subsequent verses. The exchange between Mary and Elisabeth is a moment of mutual acknowledgment and celebration of God’s work.

Historical Context

At the time Luke was written, Jewish culture was highly influenced by Roman occupation, and there existed strong expectations concerning messianic deliverance. The narrative of Mary’s visit to Elisabeth reflects the interconnectedness of family networks and the close bonds that tied them together. Traveling from Nazareth to the hill country of Judea, where Zacharias and Elisabeth lived, would have been a significant journey for Mary and demonstrates the importance of family connection and support during significant life events.

Theological Insights

This verse reflects the theme of divine favor and the fulfillment of prophecy. Elisabeth is filled with the Holy Spirit and recognizes the mother of her Lord, validating Mary’s divine pregnancy. Within Christian theology, this encounter between Mary and Elisabeth serves as a testament to the unique roles they both play in salvation history. Moreover, it underscores the importance of faith and the recognition of God’s intervention in human lives.

Practical Applications

Luke 1:40 underscores the importance of fellowship and community among believers. Practical applications from this verse might include the act of visiting and supporting those who are also undergoing significant life experiences, sharing in joys, and encouraging one another’s faith. Additionally, it emphasizes the value of recognizing and celebrating God’s work in others’ lives.

Cross-References

• Luke 1:36-37: “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. For with God nothing shall be impossible.”
• Luke 1:41: “And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost:”
• Luke 1:56: “And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned to her own house.”

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the word translated as “entered” (εἰσῆλθεν, eisēlthen) carries the meaning of going or coming into a place, signifying Mary’s act of entering Zacharias’ house. The term “saluted” (ἠσπάσατο, ēspasato) goes beyond a mere greeting; it suggests a warm, respectful, and affectionate welcome, indicating the close relationship between Mary and Elisabeth.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparable to ancient myths, this encounter can be seen as a divine confirmation much like auspicious omens or prophetic encounters in other cultures. The warm greeting between Mary and Elisabeth also aligns with the eastern Mediterranean emphasis on hospitality and the honor in receiving guests warmly. In other religious interpretations, such as in Islam, Mary (or Maryam) is held in high esteem, and her visitation by the angel is also a significant event, although the details and characters differ from the Christian narrative.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientifically, the leap of the baby in Elisabeth’s womb, mentioned in the following verse (Luke 1:41), can be interpreted using modern knowledge of fetal development and behavior. Today, we know that fetuses respond to external stimuli, which could be understood as a natural reaction. However, in the biblical context, this is seen as a supernatural sign of recognition of the presence of Mary and the unborn Jesus.

Commentaries

Commentators have noted the significance of Mary’s immediate action to visit Elisabeth after the Annunciation. They often emphasize the humility and devotion represented in Mary’s journey and her role as a willing servant in God’s plan. The contrast between Zechariah’s doubt at the announcement of John’s birth and Mary’s faithful action serves to highlight her exemplary faith. Elisabeth’s reaction when Mary greets her, which is described in the verses that follow, is often used to demonstrate the activity of the Holy Spirit and the recognition of Jesus, even before his birth.