Luke 1:10
And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time of incense.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 13
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
λαοῦ
of the people
G2992
λαοῦ
of the people
Strong's:
G2992
Word #:
6 of 13
a people (in general; thus differing from g1218, which denotes one's own populace)
τῇ
G3588
τῇ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
10 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Leviticus 16:17And there shall be no man in the tabernacle of the congregation when he goeth in to make an atonement in the holy place, until he come out, and have made an atonement for himself, and for his household, and for all the congregation of Israel.Revelation 8:3And another angel came and stood at the altar, having a golden censer; and there was given unto him much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne.
Historical Context
The morning and evening incense offerings coincided with the daily sacrifices, creating structured times for national prayer. This corporate intercession represented Israel's longing for Messiah and redemption, which God was about to answer through John's birth.
Questions for Reflection
- How does corporate prayer create conditions for God's intervention in history?
- Why is regular, disciplined prayer important even when we don't see immediate results?
- What might God be doing behind the scenes in response to your prayers?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The 'whole multitude of the people' praying outside during the incense offering created the sacred context for Gabriel's appearance. The hour of incense—9 AM or 3 PM—was a set time of prayer, showing the importance of regular, corporate worship. Their prayers ascending with the incense (Rev 8:3-4) demonstrate the connection between faithful intercession and divine intervention. The congregation's ignorance of the angelic visitation reminds us that God works behind visible circumstances in answer to prayer.