What does Luke 1:79 mean?

To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. Luke 1:79

Explanation

Luke 1:79 is a verse from the Christian New Testament and is part of a larger section often referred to as the “Benedictus,” a song of praise by Zechariah after the birth of his son, John the Baptist. In this verse, the ‘light’ is commonly interpreted as a metaphor for spiritual awakening and knowledge, which is bestowed upon those who are in ‘darkness’ and ‘the shadow of death.’ Here darkness could symbolize ignorance, sin, and the resultant separation from God, whereas the ‘shadow of death’ could suggest oppression, suffering, or literal death. ‘To guide our feet into the way of peace’ suggests a transformation and redirection of one’s life from a path of conflict (inner and outer) to a path of peace, harmony, and reconciliation with God.

Historical Context

The Gospel of Luke is believed to have been written around AD 80-110. At this time, the early Christian community was composed of both Jewish and Gentile converts. The verse reflects the Jewish hope for a Messiah who would bring redemption and relief from suffering. Zechariah, as a devout Jew, perceives the coming of Jesus Christ, whom John the Baptist would precede, as the fulfillment of this Messianic hope.

Theological Insights

From a Christian theological perspective, this verse often is seen as prophetic, pointing to Jesus as the ‘light.’ It reflects the theme of salvation and redemption, suggesting that Jesus’ purpose is to bring spiritual enlightenment and salvation to humanity. In Catholicism, this is seen in the context of God’s saving grace. Protestant interpretations might emphasize the personal relationship with Jesus as the means by which one is guided into peace. Eastern Orthodox theology might see this verse as an expression of the idea that Christ illuminates the world through His incarnation.

Practical Applications

The verse encourages believers to recognize and seek a transformation from a life of sin (darkness) to a life in accordance with Christian teachings (light). This could mean offering compassion and aid to those who are suffering or in need, pursuing reconciliation and peacemaking in personal relationships and communities, and striving to live a moral and ethical life according to the principles taught by Jesus.

Cross-References

• “[The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up.]” (Matthew 4:16)
• “[The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?]” (Psalm 27:1)
• “[For thou wilt light my candle: the LORD my God will enlighten my darkness.]” (Psalm 18:28)

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the word for ‘light’ is φωτίζειν (phōtizein), meaning to give light or to make to see. ‘Darkness’ is σκότος (skotos), which can be used literally or figuratively to mean darkness of error or ignorance. ‘Shadow of death’ is σκιὰ θανάτου (skia thanatou), a term used in the Old Testament, which symbolizes intense darkness or the deepest shadow. The term ‘guide’ is ὀδηγέω (odēgeō), meaning to lead or to bring on one’s way. ‘Peace’ is εἰρήνη (eirēnē), which refers to not only the absence of war but also to prosperity, security, and inner tranquility.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of light as a symbol of knowledge and goodness is not unique to Christianity and can be found in various cultures and religions. For instance, in Hinduism, Diwali, the festival of lights, represents the victory of light over darkness. In Zoroastrianism, light is a central symbol of Ahura Mazda, the principle of goodness. Ancient Egyptian religion also saw light as a symbol of life and creation, associated with the sun god Ra.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, light is essential for life on Earth, enabling vision and driving photosynthesis. The symbolism of light as a guide out of darkness has parallels in our understanding of light as essential for orientation and safety. The darkness can also be understood in terms of psychological states, such as depression or despair, and contemporary psychological treatments often aim to bring individuals ‘into the light’ of understanding and healing.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and religious commentators have unique interpretations of Luke 1:79. Matthew Henry’s Commentary emphasizes the mercy and the tender mercy of God as the reason for this enlightenment. The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges sees it as indicative of the universalist element in Luke, indicating that Gentiles as well as Jews were to be called to repentance. Many modern commentators discuss the connection of the verse to the idea of Christ’s incarnation bringing light to a world in spiritual darkness. They also tend to reflect on the personal transformation that this ‘light’ can create within individuals, leading them towards lives of greater peace and harmony with the divine will.