New Testament

Luke 1:34

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, Mary is responding to the angel Gabriel's announcement that she will conceive a child, Jesus, despite being a virgin.

Author
Luke the physician
Written
Around AD 60-62
Genre
Gospel and history
Original Audience
Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
CBTClear Bible Translation

Mary asked the angel, "How can this be, since I have not been with a man?"

KJVKing James Version

Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Mary is responding to the angel Gabriel's announcement that she will conceive a child, Jesus, despite being a virgin. Her question reflects her confusion and disbelief about how this miraculous event could happen, given her lack of sexual experience. Mary’s inquiry shows her desire for understanding and highlights her innocence and faith. She is not doubting God's power but is seeking clarity on the process. This moment is significant as it sets the stage for the miraculous conception of Jesus, emphasizing the divine nature of His birth. Mary's response also illustrates the human tendency to question the unknown, especially when faced with extraordinary circumstances. Her willingness to ask questions demonstrates a thoughtful approach to faith, showing that seeking understanding is a part of spiritual growth. This interaction between Mary and the angel emphasizes the importance of communication with God and the role of faith in accepting His plans, even when they seem impossible. Explore related purity.

Key themes

Related topics

purity, faith, fear

How to apply Luke 1:34 to your life

When faced with situations that seem impossible, like Mary, we can ask God for clarity and understanding. It's okay to question and seek answers in our faith journey. Trusting in God's plan, even when we don't fully understand it, is essential for spiritual growth.

Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Luke 1:34 mean?

In Luke 1:34, Mary questions the angel Gabriel about how she can conceive a child without having been with a man. This reflects her confusion about the miraculous announcement and her desire for understanding, highlighting her innocence and faith.

What is the significance of Mary's question in Luke 1:34?

Mary's question in Luke 1:34 shows her thoughtful approach to faith. It emphasizes that seeking clarity and understanding is a natural part of spiritual growth, especially when faced with extraordinary circumstances.

How does Luke 1:34 relate to the concept of faith?

Luke 1:34 illustrates that faith includes asking questions and seeking understanding. Mary's inquiry demonstrates that it's okay to seek clarity from God, reinforcing the idea that faith can coexist with doubt and curiosity.

What does Mary mean by 'I have not been with a man' in Luke 1:34?

When Mary says 'I have not been with a man' in Luke 1:34, she is expressing her virginity and confusion about how she can conceive a child. This statement underscores the miraculous nature of Jesus' conception.

The Book of Luke
Book Summary

The Book of Luke

Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold

In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.

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