What does Luke 1:9 mean?

Explanation

Luke 1:9 describes an event in the life of Zechariah, a Jewish priest, who was chosen by lot to enter the sanctuary of the Lord to burn incense.

This verse occurs in the context of the announcement of the birth of John the Baptist. The practice of burning incense in the Temple was a prestigious duty, and it was determined by lot among the priests due to its significance.

Historical Context

The verse is situated in the Jerusalem Temple during the Second Temple period, approximately in the first century BC.

At that time, the priesthood was divided into 24 divisions, and each division served in the Temple for one week, twice a year.

The casting of lots to choose a priest for certain duties ensured that the role was allocated by divine choice rather than human decision.

Theological Insights

The act of burning incense in the Temple represented the prayers of the people ascending to God.

The fact that Zechariah was chosen by lot might symbolize God's intervention in a significant moment of Israel’s history.

The task of burning incense had deeper meanings associated with intercession and sanctity, which prefigures the New Testament understanding of Christ as the ultimate mediator between God and humanity.

Practical Applications

This verse exemplifies the importance of service and duty within religious life. Believers can take away the understanding that roles within a faith community can be seen as divinely appointed.

Furthermore, it encourages individuals to approach their responsibilities with reverence, whether they seem mundane or extraordinary.

Cross-References

• 1 Chronicles 24:10 - which describes the division of priests, including the division of Abijah, to which Zechariah belonged.
• Exodus 30:7-8 - which describes Aaron's duty to burn incense every morning and evening, a tradition continued by later priests.
• Revelation 8:3-4 - which depicts an angel offering incense along with the prayers of all the saints upon the golden altar before the throne of God.

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the word for "custom" is "ἔθος" (ethos), suggesting a customary, established practice.

The word for "priest's office" is "ἱερατεία" (hierateia), referring to the ministry or function of the priest.

"Lot" translates to "κλῆρος" (kleros), meaning a stone or piece used for casting lots or a portion assigned.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The practice of casting lots to determine divine will is not unique to Judaism; it can be seen in various ancient cultures, such as amongst the Greeks and Romans.

In other religious traditions, such as in Hinduism, duties within the temple are also structured and often follow a hereditary or rotational system.

Scientific Perspectives

While the act of burning incense itself is a religious practice, it might have had practical applications in ancient times, such as purifying the air or acting as a form of aromatherapy.

Modern science has shown that certain incense ingredients can have psychoactive properties that affect the brain.

commentaries

Commentators like Matthew Henry view this verse as a representation of God’s sovereignty in the seemingly random event of casting lots.

They note that Zechariah's selection signified a pivotal moment in preparing for the coming of the Messiah.

John Gill points out that the burning of incense was a significant honor and extremely rare opportunity for a priest, and thus, holds great importance in the narrative.