New Testament
Luke 1:36
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, the angel Gabriel informs Mary that her relative Elisabeth, who was previously thought to be unable to have children, is now six months pregnant.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
"And listen — your relative Elisabeth has also conceived a son in her old age. She who was called barren is now in her 6th month."
And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the angel Gabriel informs Mary that her relative Elisabeth, who was previously thought to be unable to have children, is now six months pregnant. This news serves as a sign of God's miraculous power and ability to fulfill His promises, even in seemingly impossible situations. Elisabeth's pregnancy is significant because it highlights God's intervention in the lives of those who are considered barren or hopeless. The mention of Elisabeth's advanced age emphasizes the miraculous nature of her conception, reinforcing the theme that with God, nothing is impossible. This moment also connects Mary to a larger narrative of divine action, as both women are part of God's plan for salvation. The angel's message encourages Mary to trust in God's plan and serves as a reminder that God can work through anyone, regardless of their circumstances or societal expectations.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 1:36 to your life
This verse encourages us to trust in God's ability to work miracles in our lives, even when situations seem hopeless. It reminds us that God can bring about change and fulfillment of His promises, urging us to have faith in His timing and plans.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 1:36 mean?
Luke 1:36 means that the angel Gabriel is telling Mary that her relative Elisabeth, who was thought to be unable to have children, is now six months pregnant. This highlights God's miraculous power and ability to fulfill His promises.
What is the significance of Elisabeth's pregnancy in Luke 1:36?
Elisabeth's pregnancy is significant because it demonstrates God's intervention in what seemed impossible, as she was considered barren and of advanced age. It serves as a sign of hope and a reminder that God can work miracles.
What does 'who was called barren' mean in Luke 1:36?
'Who was called barren' refers to Elisabeth's previous inability to conceive children, which made her pregnancy a miraculous event. It underscores the theme that God can change circumstances that seem impossible.
How does Luke 1:36 relate to faith?
Luke 1:36 relates to faith by encouraging believers to trust in God's ability to perform miracles, even when situations appear hopeless. It shows that faith in God's promises can lead to unexpected blessings.

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.
Unlock the full Luke summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Luke — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 24 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Luke summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.