What does Luke 1:63 mean?

And he asked for a writing table, and wrote, saying, His name is John. And they marvelled all. Luke 1:63

Explanation

The verse Luke 1:63 from the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible takes place after the birth of John the Baptist. In the preceding verses, we learn that Zechariah, John’s father, was struck dumb by the angel Gabriel because he questioned the angel’s prophecy that Elizabeth, his elderly and barren wife, would bear a son. This inability to speak lasted throughout Elizabeth’s pregnancy. When it came time to name the child, there was an expectation within their community that the child would be named after his father, as per the tradition of the time. However, Elizabeth insists that his name should be John. The people around were surprised by this and turned to the mute Zechariah to get his opinion.

Being mute, Zechariah asked for a writing tablet—likely a small wooden board coated with wax—and confirmed his wife’s declaration naming their son John. This action confirmed his obedience to God’s command, as the angel Gabriel had told him to name his son John. The fulfillment of Zechariah’s obedience and the unexpected name choice made all present marvel. This verse stands as a pivotal moment in which Zechariah regains his speech (which happens immediately afterward, in verse 64) and signifies the beginning of John’s destiny as the forerunner of Jesus Christ.

Historical Context

Luke 1:63 is set in the Hill Country of Judea, where Zechariah and Elizabeth lived. The period is during the Herodian era, just before the birth of Jesus, which places it in the late 1st century BC. Jewish custom at the time was to name the first son after his father. The breaking of this custom would have been a significant event, warranting the reaction witnessed by those present. This narrative reflects the culture of ancient Israel where names were not only identifiers but also conveyed meanings and were seen as linked to one’s destiny.

Theological Insights

From a Christian theological perspective, the naming of John is seen as an act of faith and submission to God’s will. It demonstrates that God has a specific plan for each person, and in this case, it foreshadows John’s role in the divine plan. The name “John” means “the Lord is gracious,” which theologians argue is fitting for someone who would prepare the way for the grace that Jesus would bring.

From different Christian denominations, views on this passage might slightly vary. For instance, some Catholics see this event as an affirmation of the role of the saints (Zechariah and Elizabeth) in following God’s will despite societal pressures. Protestant interpretations often use this passage to emphasize the importance of individual faith and direct obedience to God’s revelation.

Practical Applications

This verse serves as an example of faithfulness and trust in God’s plan. Believers might find inspiration in Zechariah’s act to uphold God’s command despite his personal hardship and social expectations. It can encourage individuals to adhere to their beliefs even when facing pressure from society to conform. Moreover, it illuminates the importance of communication in faith communities, showing that the written word can be just as powerful as the spoken one.

Cross-References

• Luke 1:13-14: “But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zechariah: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John.”
• Luke 1:60: “But his mother answered and said, Not so; but he shall be called John.”
• Luke 1:64: “And his mouth was opened immediately, and his tongue loosed, and he spake, and praised God.”

Language Study

In the original Greek text of this verse, the phrase “writing table” is translated from “πινακίδιον” (pinakidion), which refers to a small tablet or a plank. These were typically made of wood and covered with wax, used for writing with a stylus.

The Greek word for “wrote” used here is “γράφω” (graphō), insinuating that Zechariah not only wrote on the tablet but authored a statement, making a definitive proclamation regarding the child’s name.

“His name is John” translates to “ὄνομα αὐτῷ Ἰωάννης” (onoma autō Iōannēs). Here, the importance is on “ὄνομα” (onoma), indicating both the literal name and the importance or character associated with the name.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The significance of names and their divine or prophetic assignment is not unique to Judaism or Christianity. Many other ancient cultures attached profound meaning to names. For example, in ancient Greco-Roman traditions, a name often signified a person’s attributes or destiny, and a change in name could signify a change in status or role.

In some other religions, the act of naming can be a prophetic or spiritual exercise. For example, in Islam, the Prophet Muhammad would sometimes give people new names, signifying a new path or destiny aligned with their faith.

Scientific Perspectives

While the verse does not directly lend itself to scientific inquiry, some aspects of speech and language—such as Zechariah’s muteness and subsequent ability to speak—have been studied extensively. For instance, modern medical science might interpret Zechariah’s experience as a psychosomatic condition brought about by his profound encounter with the divine or as the result of a temporary medical condition.

Commentaries

Commentaries by experts provide various interpretations of this verse:

• Matthew Henry’s Commentary emphasizes the unity between Zechariah and Elizabeth in obeying God’s command and hints at the dismay their acquaintances felt upon learning the child was not to be named Zechariah.

• The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges examines the historical and cultural significance of naming, especially in the context of parental authority and expectations.

• John Gill’s Exposition of the Entire Bible reflects on the immediate understanding and submission of Zechariah to God’s commandment, tying this to John’s later ministry.

• The Pulpit Commentary delves into the symbolic significance of Zechariah’s actions and how it signifies the breaking of old traditions in light of the new covenant that John the Baptist would usher in.

Each commentary brings a unique perspective that provides additional depth to the understanding of the text.