Luke 1:47
And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 11
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 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
πνεῦμά
spirit
G4151
πνεῦμά
spirit
Strong's:
G4151
Word #:
4 of 11
a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin
ἐπὶ
in
G1909
ἐπὶ
in
Strong's:
G1909
Word #:
6 of 11
properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re
τῷ
G3588
τῷ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
θεῷ
God
G2316
θεῷ
God
Strong's:
G2316
Word #:
8 of 11
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
τῷ
G3588
τῷ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Psalms 35:9And my soul shall be joyful in the LORD: it shall rejoice in his salvation.1 Timothy 2:3For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;Habakkuk 3:18Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation.Titus 2:10Not purloining, but shewing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.1 Timothy 1:1Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Saviour, and Lord Jesus Christ, which is our hope;Luke 2:11For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.Titus 2:13Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;Jude 1:25To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.
Historical Context
Mary's use of 'Saviour' (Greek 'soter') applies to God what angels would soon announce about her son (Luke 2:11). Her recognition of needing salvation despite her unique role demonstrates Jewish understanding that all people need God's redemptive work.
Questions for Reflection
- What does Mary's confession of needing a Savior teach about human sinfulness?
- How can we rejoice in God's choice while acknowledging our unworthiness?
- Why is it significant that Mary's song echoes Old Testament prayers?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Mary's declaration 'my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour' reveals theological depth—she recognizes her need for a Savior despite being chosen to bear God's Son. The perfect tense 'hath rejoiced' indicates completed action with ongoing results; her joy began and continues. Mary's identification of God as 'my Saviour' refutes later Marian dogmas of sinlessness—she needed salvation like all humanity. Her rejoicing flows not from personal merit but from God's gracious choice and saving work. This models that highest honor from God still requires His saving grace. Mary's Magnificat echoes Hannah's song (1 Sam 2), showing her saturation in Scripture and God's pattern of exalting the humble.