What does Luke 1:46 mean?

And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord, Luke 1:46

Explanation

The verse Luke 1:46, ‘And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord,’ is the opening line of a passage commonly referred to as the Magnificat. It expresses the Virgin Mary’s profound joy and gratitude to God following the annunciation by the angel Gabriel that she would bear the Son of God. The word “magnify” in this context means to glorify or to praise. So, when Mary says her “soul doth magnify the Lord,” she is declaring that her entire being is dedicated to praising and glorifying God. This is a declaration of humble servitude and devotion, reflecting a recognition of God’s greatness and her smallness in comparison. It is both a personal statement of faith and an acknowledgment of God’s salvific work about to unfold through her.

Historical Context

The Magnificat is found in the Gospel according to Luke, written approximately in the latter half of the first century. The Gospel of Luke is known for its detailed account of Jesus’ birth, and it specifically focuses on the experiences and perspectives of women, which was not common in the literature of that period. The Gospel was written in a Greco-Roman world, heavily influenced by the values of that culture but also distinctively Jewish in its religious orientation. The Magnificat echoes the Old Testament, particularly the Song of Hannah (1 Samuel 2:1-10), suggesting a continuity with Jewish prayer and praise traditions.

Theological Insights

Theologically, Luke 1:46 is significant for several reasons:

1. Worship: It reflects an attitude of worship and adoration towards God. Mary becomes a model for Christian piety.
2. Role of Mary: Mary’s response to God’s action in her life is seen as an example of perfect acceptance of God’s will, which has informed doctrines about Mary’s own sinlessness and willing cooperation in the plan of salvation.
3. Magnification of God: This verse captures the idea that the acknowledgement of God’s greatness and mercy is magnified when seen through the lens of humility and servanthood.
4. Christology: The entire Magnificat points forward to the ministry and mission of Jesus Christ, as it speaks of God siding with the lowly and feeding the hungry, themes that will be central to Jesus’ teaching and work.

Practical Applications

The practical applications derived from Luke 1:46 could include:

1. Humility: Embracing a humble approach in one’s spiritual life and recognizing the greatness of God.
2. Devotion: Fostering a spirit of devotion and praise as a cornerstone of faith.
3. Service: Encouraging acts of service and mercy, reflecting God’s love for the marginalized.
4. Thanksgiving: Promoting an attitude of gratitude for the blessings and workings of God in one’s life.

Cross-References

• 1 Samuel 2:1-2: “And Hannah prayed, and said, My heart rejoiceth in the Lord, mine horn is exalted in the Lord: my mouth is enlarged over mine enemies; because I rejoice in thy salvation.”
• Psalm 34:2-3: “My soul shall make her boast in the Lord: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together.”
• Psalm 35:9: “And my soul shall be joyful in the Lord: it shall rejoice in his salvation.”
• Luke 1:47-55: The subsequent verses of the Magnificat continue the themes introduced in Luke 1:46.

Language Study

In the original Greek text of Luke 1:46, “Μεγαλύνει” (megalunei) is the word translated as “doth magnify.” The root word “μεγαλύνω” (megalynō) means to enlarge, extol, or declare great. It conveys a sense of proclamation and celebration of majesty. When Mary says “my soul,” she uses the term “ψυχή” (psyche), which often signifies the vital breath, life, or the very self of a person, thus referring to the innermost being.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The Magnificat shares similarities with many ancient near-eastern texts where individuals express their gratitude to a deity for personal blessings or deliverance. Its structure and themes resemble the biblical Jewish tradition, especially the aforementioned Song of Hannah. However, unlike many mythologies where deities themselves are magnified, in the Magnificat, a mortal—Mary—magnifies the divine, emphasizing the humility and servant role of humanity in relation to the divine.

Scientific Perspectives

The verse Luke 1:46 itself does not directly intersect with scientific understandings. Science does not typically address theological concepts like worship or the magnification of God. However, the profound emotional expression in Mary’s declaration can relate to psychological studies on the effects of religion and spirituality on human well-being. The positive emotions associated with worship and gratitude have been linked to better mental health outcomes.

Commentaries

Biblical commentators and theologians offer various interpretations of this verse. Some focus on the literary beauty and poetic nature of the Magnificat, while others highlight its revolutionary content, as God is seen as upending the social order through the humble state of Mary. Traditional commentary often venerates Mary’s faith and obedience. Modern commentators might emphasize her role as a model for social justice and advocate for the poor and oppressed, reflecting liberation theology perspectives. Overall, though interpretations vary, the Magnificat, and especially Luke 1:46, is revered for its spiritual depth and powerful message.