New Testament
Luke 1:40
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She entered Zacharias's house and greeted Elisabeth.
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And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth.
What Luke 1:40 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Mary visits her relative Elisabeth, who is the wife of Zacharias. The act of entering Zacharias's house signifies a personal connection and the importance of family ties. Mary greets Elisabeth, which shows her respect and affection. This greeting is significant because it occurs during a time of great expectation for both women; Mary is pregnant with Jesus, and Elisabeth is pregnant with John the Baptist. Their meeting symbolizes the coming together of two important figures in the biblical narrative. The greeting also reflects the joy and excitement surrounding their pregnancies, as both women are experiencing miraculous events. This moment highlights the theme of divine intervention in their lives and sets the stage for the unfolding of God's plan through their children. The act of greeting also emphasizes the importance of community and support among family members during significant life events, reminding us of the value of relationships in our own lives.
How to apply Luke 1:40 to your life
This verse encourages us to value our relationships and reach out to family and friends during significant moments in our lives. Just as Mary visited Elisabeth, we should offer support and share joy with those we care about, fostering deeper connections.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Mary, Jesus' mother's story: Mary Visits Elizabeth (Luke 1:39–45)
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Mary, Jesus' mother
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
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Keep studying Luke 1:40
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Key themes
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At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 1:40 mean?
Luke 1:40 describes Mary visiting her relative Elisabeth, who is pregnant with John the Baptist. This visit highlights the importance of family connections and the shared joy of their miraculous pregnancies.
What is the significance of Mary greeting Elisabeth in Luke 1:40?
Mary's greeting of Elisabeth signifies respect and affection, emphasizing the bond between them. It also reflects the joy and excitement surrounding their pregnancies, marking a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative.
How does Luke 1:40 relate to family relationships?
Luke 1:40 emphasizes the value of family relationships by showing Mary reaching out to Elisabeth during a significant time. Their meeting underscores the importance of support and connection among family members.
What themes are present in Luke 1:40?
Key themes in Luke 1:40 include family connection, divine intervention, joyful greetings, and supportive relationships. The verse highlights the miraculous nature of both women's pregnancies and the joy of their shared experience.
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