Luke 1:56
And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned to her own house.
Original Language Analysis
Ἔμεινεν
abode
G3306
Ἔμεινεν
abode
Strong's:
G3306
Word #:
1 of 14
to stay (in a given place, state, relation or expectancy)
Μαριὰμ
Mary
G3137
Μαριὰμ
Mary
Strong's:
G3137
Word #:
3 of 14
maria or mariam (i.e., mirjam), the name of six christian females
σὺν
with
G4862
σὺν
with
Strong's:
G4862
Word #:
4 of 14
with or together (but much closer than g3326 or g3844), i.e., by association, companionship, process, resemblance, possession, instrumentality, additi
αὐτῆς
her
G846
αὐτῆς
her
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
5 of 14
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
9 of 14
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ὑπέστρεψεν
returned
G5290
ὑπέστρεψεν
returned
Strong's:
G5290
Word #:
10 of 14
to turn under (behind), i.e., to return (literally or figuratively)
εἰς
to
G1519
εἰς
to
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
11 of 14
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 #:
12 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Historical Context
The three-month visit meant Mary was present during Elisabeth's final trimester, providing practical help and spiritual fellowship. Her departure before John's circumcision and naming allowed that event to focus on God's work in Zacharias and Elisabeth's family without complications from Mary's situation.
Questions for Reflection
- How does extended Christian fellowship strengthen faith during trials?
- What value is there in seeking counsel from older, more mature believers?
- Why is it sometimes wise to withdraw from situations even when not required?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Mary's three-month stay with Elisabeth provided mutual encouragement during their miraculous pregnancies. The specific duration—likely until John's birth—gave Mary support through her vulnerable first trimester and allowed the two women to marvel together at God's work. Her return home afterward suggests she departed before John's birth, possibly to avoid drawing attention from her growing pregnancy. This extended visit demonstrates the value of Christian fellowship during significant spiritual experiences and trials. Mary's willingness to serve and learn from an older, godly woman models humility and wisdom in seeking spiritual mentorship.