Luke 1:34
Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?
Original Language Analysis
Μαριὰμ
Mary
G3137
Μαριὰμ
Mary
Strong's:
G3137
Word #:
3 of 13
maria or mariam (i.e., mirjam), the name of six christian females
πρὸς
unto
G4314
πρὸς
unto
Strong's:
G4314
Word #:
4 of 13
a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,
τὸν
G3588
τὸν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἄγγελον
the angel
G32
ἄγγελον
the angel
Strong's:
G32
Word #:
6 of 13
compare g0034) (to bring tidings); a messenger; especially an "angel"; by implication, a pastor
Πῶς
How
G4459
Πῶς
How
Strong's:
G4459
Word #:
7 of 13
an interrogative particle of manner; in what way? (sometimes the question is indirect, how?); also as exclamation, how much!
Historical Context
Mary's question reveals her understanding that she was still a virgin and that normal conception required marital relations. Unlike Zacharias who questioned based on natural impossibility, Mary sought understanding of the divine method, showing faith that God would preserve her integrity while fulfilling His promise.
Questions for Reflection
- What is the difference between faith seeking understanding and doubt demanding proof?
- How can we ask questions about God's promises without displaying unbelief?
- Why is it appropriate to seek understanding of how God works while trusting that He will?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Mary's question 'How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?' demonstrates faith seeking understanding, not Zacharias-like doubt. The present tense 'know not' indicates her current virginity, while her question seeks explanation of method, not possibility. Mary doesn't question whether God can fulfill His word, but how He will accomplish it while preserving her virginity. This shows mature faith that accepts God's promise while seeking to understand His means. Her question invited instruction, not demanded proof, modeling the proper relationship between faith and understanding in Christian epistemology.