What does Luke 1:56 mean?

And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned to her own house. Luke 1:56

Explanation

The verse in question, Luke 1:56, speaks of Mary, who is to become the mother of Jesus, staying with her relative Elizabeth for about three months before returning to her own home. Elizabeth is also pregnant at the time with John the Baptist. This short narrative is significant because it positions Mary as a supportive family member during Elizabeth’s pregnancy and also underscores the close relationship between the two women. The verse is part of the narrative that sets the stage for the birth of Jesus, with Mary’s visit often interpreted as an act of family solidarity and mutual support during a transformative period in their lives.

Historical Context

Luke 1:56 is set in the historical context of the Roman province of Judea during the reign of King Herod the Great. This was a time of significant political tension and religious expectation among the Jewish population. Many were anticipating the arrival of a Messiah, a savior figure prophesied in the Hebrew Scriptures. The verse is thought to have been written by the author of the Gospel of Luke in the late 1st century. Culturally, lineage and family relationships were very important within the Jewish community, and the narrative highlighting the relationship between Mary and Elizabeth would be very meaningful to the early Christian community.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse is often viewed as a part of the larger narrative of God’s plan for redemption through the birth of Jesus. Mary’s visit with Elizabeth can be seen as a time when two miracle pregnancies overlapped, indicating a divine connection between John the Baptist’s and Jesus’ missions. Some theologians suggest that Mary’s support of Elizabeth reflects the Christian virtues of love, service, and community. Additionally, Mary’s visit fulfills the Old Testament prophecy about the Messiah’s lineage, as both women are from the House of David.

Practical Applications

In contemporary Christian practice, this verse can inspire the faithful to offer support and compassion to others, particularly during significant life changes. The practice of visiting and caring for relatives and the wider community is a practical application of Mary’s example. The story encourages believers to seek out the fellowship, to provide support during times of need, and to celebrate life’s important moments together.

Cross-References

• Luke 1:36: “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 1:39-41: “And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Juda; And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth. 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:”
• Matthew 1:18-23: The narrative of Jesus’ divine conception and the role of Mary as his mother.

Language Study

In Luke 1:56, key phrases in the original Greek text include:

• “μενε” (mene): Typically translated as “abode” or “stayed,” this word implies remaining in a place or with someone.
• “περί” (peri): This word means “about” or “approximately,” indicating that the three months is not an exact count but a general timeframe.
• “οἰκίαν” (oikian): Meaning “house” or “home,” it indicates a return to one’s own familial and social setting.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In many ancient cultures and religious narratives, the motif of a woman visiting relatives during pregnancy is common, reflecting the importance of familial support and the passing of wisdom between generations. The visitation theme in Luke is unique in its theological implications, but parallels can be seen in other traditions where expectant mothers seek the company and counsel of experienced family members.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern science underscores the benefits of social support during pregnancy, such as reduced stress and improved outcomes for both mother and child. Although the verse does not explicitly mention health benefits, Mary’s prolonged visit may have provided Elizabeth with emotional and perhaps physical support, which aligns with contemporary understandings of maternal well-being.

Commentaries

The commentators often view Luke 1:56 as a significant yet understated moment that emphasizes the deep connection between Mary and Elizabeth, representative of the Christian community’s broader bonds. Some experts point out the juxtaposition of Mary’s young, virginal pregnancy with Elizabeth’s miraculous late-age pregnancy, highlighting the divine nature of both events. Commentators frequently discuss the role of women in God’s plan as exemplified in this interaction, and how Mary’s return home marks a transition back to her own journey towards the birth of Jesus.