Luke 1:40
And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 10
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
εἰς
into
G1519
εἰς
into
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
3 of 10
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
τὸν
G3588
τὸν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
οἶκον
the house
G3624
οἶκον
the house
Strong's:
G3624
Word #:
5 of 10
a dwelling (more or less extensive, literal or figurative); by implication, a family (more or less related, literally or figuratively)
Ζαχαρίου
of Zacharias
G2197
Ζαχαρίου
of Zacharias
Strong's:
G2197
Word #:
6 of 10
zacharias (i.e., zechariah), the name of two israelites
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
7 of 10
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἠσπάσατο
saluted
G782
ἠσπάσατο
saluted
Strong's:
G782
Word #:
8 of 10
to enfold in the arms, i.e., (by implication) to salute, (figuratively) to welcome
Historical Context
The customary Jewish greeting 'Shalom' (peace) took on profound significance as Mary, carrying the Prince of Peace, greeted Elisabeth, carrying His forerunner. This meeting of two miracle-bearing women in a Judean home became a pivotal moment in redemptive history.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God use ordinary greetings and interactions for extraordinary purposes?
- What is the value of godly female fellowship in spiritual growth and confirmation?
- How can we be attentive to God's work in everyday encounters?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Mary's entrance into Zacharias's house and salutation of Elisabeth sets the stage for the Spirit-filled recognition that follows. The specific mention of saluting Elisabeth (not Zacharias) suggests intentional seeking of female fellowship. Mary's greeting triggers the Holy Spirit's manifestation in Elisabeth and John's womb, showing how God uses ordinary human interaction as occasions for extraordinary spiritual revelation. The simplicity of this domestic scene—one woman greeting another—becoming the context for prophetic utterance demonstrates that God works through normal life circumstances to reveal His purposes.