Luke 1:41
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 1:41
41 And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost:
Chapter Context
Luke 1 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of obedience, wisdom, prayer. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-80: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 1:41
41 And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost:
Analysis
Elizabeth's Spirit-filled response begins with the baby John leaping in her womb. The verb 'skirtaō' (σκιρτάω, 'leap') indicates joyful jumping, demonstrating prenatal personhood and John's prophetic recognition of the Messiah even before birth. Elizabeth's cry 'Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb' (εὐλογημένη σὺ ἐν γυναιξίν, καὶ εὐλογημένος ὁ καρπὸς τῆς κοιλίας σου) uses 'eulogeō' (εὐλογέω), meaning to speak well of or praise, not to worship. Mary is blessed because of her Son, not in herself. Elizabeth's humility—'whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?'—recognizes both Jesus' lordship and Mary's favored position.
Historical Context
The Visitation likely occurred in a Judean hill country village (traditionally identified as Ein Karem, near Jerusalem) during Elizabeth's sixth month of pregnancy. The journey from Nazareth required 3-4 days travel, about 80-90 miles. Elizabeth's Spirit-inspired greeting confirms the angelic announcement without Mary having to explain her condition—providential reassurance for the young virgin facing an impossible situation.
Reflection
- What does John's prenatal recognition of Jesus teach about the personhood of the unborn?
- How does Elizabeth's Spirit-filled pronouncement validate Mary's faith and provide communal support for her calling?
Word Studies
- Holy: ἅγιος (Hagios) G40 - Holy, sacred, set apart
Cross-References
- Holy: Luke 1:15, 1:67, Acts 2:4, 4:8, 6:3, 7:55
- Spirit: Revelation 1:10
- Parallel theme: Luke 1:44, Genesis 25:22, Psalms 22:10