What does Luke 1:59 mean?

And it came to pass, that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child; and they called him Zacharias, after the name of his father. Luke 1:59

Explanation

Luke 1:59 speaks about the circumcision of the child who would be known as John the Baptist, and it reflects the customs and traditions of the Jewish people regarding naming and circumcision. Circumcision was an important rite in Jewish society and was typically performed on the eighth day after a male child’s birth, following the commandments given in the Law of Moses. The verse suggests that it was common during that time to name a child on the day of his circumcision. The fact that they intended to name him Zacharias, after his father, indicates a tradition of naming a child after a relative, showcasing the importance of family heritage and continuity.

Historical Context

The historical context of this verse is the period of Herodian Judea under Roman rule, at a time when the Jewish people maintained their religious and cultural practices amidst foreign occupation. Circumcision was not just a cultural tradition but was a covenant sign between God and Abraham’s descendants (Genesis 17:10-14), passed down through the generations of Israelites as an enduring sacrament. The verse provides a glimpse of the adherence to these laws and traditions among the Jewish people at the time of Jesus Christ’s birth, as recorded by Luke, who was a physician and companion of Paul, and wrote his gospel account to provide an orderly historical narrative of Jesus’ life.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, Luke 1:59 highlights the faithfulness of Zechariah and Elizabeth to the Mosaic Law, distinguishing their righteousness and obedience, which set the stage for John’s holy calling to prepare the way for the Messiah. This act of circumcision represents the Jews’ commitment to God’s covenants. Moreover, it shows the initial expectation that the child would follow in his father’s footsteps—a priestly lineage—before it is made clear that God has a different plan for John, as reflected in the subsequent verses where he is named John rather than Zacharias.

Practical Applications

This verse encourages contemporary readers to respect and honor their religious and cultural traditions, and it speaks to the importance of family legacies. It can inspire individuals to consider the significance of their own names and the histories behind them. Moreover, it prompts reflection on how parents might hope and pray for their children’s future, dedicating them to God and considering the impact of spiritual obedience on a child’s life path.

Cross-References

• Genesis 17:12 – “And he that is eight days old shall be circumcised among you, every man child in your generations, he that is born in the house, or bought with money of any stranger, which is not of thy seed.”
• Leviticus 12:3 – “And in the eighth day the flesh of his foreskin shall be circumcised.”
• Luke 2:21 – “And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb.”

Language Study

The key words in the original Greek text of Luke 1:59 include:

• “Circumcise” (περιτέμνω, peritemnō): This verb refers to the physical act of circumcision, which in the Jewish tradition was a sign of the covenant between God and Abraham.
• “Child” (παιδίον, paidion): A common term for an infant or young child, emphasizing the youth and innocence of the individual involved in the rite.
• “Zacharias” (Ζαχαρίας, Zacharias): A Hebrew name meaning ‘God has remembered.’ This likely has significance in the context, suggesting God’s faithfulness.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In Ancient Greece and Rome, naming ceremonies were also held for newborns, but they did not involve circumcision. Comparatively, in the Islamic tradition, circumcision is practiced, but it is not fixed at the eighth day and naming is often separated from the circumcision ceremony. In both contexts, names carry significance and are chosen with care.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern scientific perspectives on circumcision are varied. Some view it as a medical procedure that can reduce the risk of certain infections and diseases, whereas others see it as a potentially unnecessary operation with risks of its own. In contemporary times, the practice has become a topic of ethical debate, particularly regarding consent and bodily autonomy.

Commentaries

Various biblical commentators provide insights on Luke 1:59. Matthew Henry notes that the circumcision of John was a sign of the covenant and the child’s dedication to God. William Barclay might emphasize the social pressure on Elizabeth to name her child Zacharias, highlighting the subsequent divine intervention as a key moment in establishing John’s unique identity and mission. Contemporary scholarship often focuses on the cultural norms presented in this verse and how they frame the narrative of John the Baptist’s introduction and his role in the broader context of the New Testament.