Luke 1:26-56

Luke 1:26-56
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26 In the sixthI monthII the angelIII GabrielIV

Notes on verse 26a

I “sixth” = hektos. 14x in NT. From hex (six). This is sixth.
II “month” = men. 18x in NT. This is month.
III “angel” = aggelos. Probably from ago (to lead, bring, carry, guide) + agele (flock, herd, drove); {also from ago (see above)}. This is angel or messenger. Properly, it is one sent with news or to perform a specific task. This messenger can be human or an angel from heaven. More commonly, it is used for angels in the New Testament.
IV “Gabriel” = Gabriel. 2x in NT. From Hebrew Gabriel (Gabriel “man of God”; an archangel); {from geber (man, warrior, a person generally, or a valiant person); {from gabar (to be strong or mighty; to prevail or to be insolent)} + El (God, a god)}. This is Gabriel, “man of God,” an archangel.

was sentV by GodVI to a townVII

Notes on verse 26b

V “sent” = apostello. From apo (from, away from) + stello (to send, set, arrange, prepare, gather up); {probably from histemi (to make to stand, stand, place, set up, establish, appoint, stand firm, be steadfast)}. This is to send forth, send away, dismiss, send as a messenger. It implies one that is sent for a particular mission or purpose rather than a quick errand. This is where “apostle” comes from.
VI “God” = Theos. From Proto-Indo-European origins, meaning do, put, place. This is God or a god in general.
VII “town” = polis. This is a city or its inhabitants. It is a town of variable size, but one that has walls. This is where “metropolis” and “police” come from.

in GalileeVIII calledIX Nazareth,X 

Notes on verse 26c

VIII “Galilee” = Galilaia. From Hebrew galil (cylinder, circuit, district); from galal (to roll in a literal or figurative sense, roll away, roll down, wallow, remove, trust). This is Galilee, meaning perhaps region or cylinder.
IX “called” = onoma. May be from ginosko (know, recognize, learn from firsthand experience). This is a name, authority, cause, character, fame, reputation. The name was thought to include something of the essence of the person so it was not thought to be separate from the person.
X “Nazareth” = Nazareth. 12x in NT. Perhaps from netser (branch) OR from natsar (to watch, guard, protect). This is Nazareth, meaning perhaps branch or protected. It is a city in Galilee. See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nazareth

27 to a virginXI engagedXII to a manXIII whose nameXIV was Joseph,XV

Notes on verse 27a

XI “virgin” = parthenos. 15x in NT. This is virgin, chaste, unmarried. It can also refer to a woman past puberty who is not yet married, since she was presumed to be a virgin.
XII “engaged” = mnesteuo. 3x in NT– all in reference to Mary and Joseph. From mnaomai (to remember; by implication give reward or consequence); perhaps from meno (to stay, abide, wait, endure). OR from massaomai (to chew, gnaw); from masso (to knead, squeeze). This is to betroth, be engaged.
XIII “man” = aner. This is man, male, husband, or fellow. It can also refer to an individual.
XIV “name” = onoma. Same as “called” in v26. See note IX above.
XV “Joseph” = Ioseph. From Hebrew Yoseph (he increases; Joseph); from yasaph (to add, increase, continue, exceed). This is Joseph, meaning “he increases.”

of the houseXVI of David.XVII The virgin’s name was Mary.XVIII 

Notes on verse 27b

XVI “house” = oikos. This is house – the building, the household, the family, descendants, the temple.
XVII “David” = Dauid. From Hebrew David (David); from the same as dod (beloved, love, uncle); the root may mean to boil, which is used figuratively to describe love. So, this implies someone you love such as a friend, a lover, or a close family member like an uncle. David’s name likely means something like “beloved one.”
XVIII “Mary” = Maria. From Hebrew Miryam (Aaron and Moses’s sister); from marah (to be contentious, rebellious, bitter, provoking, disobedient; to be or make bitter or unpleasant; figuratively, to rebel or resist; causatively to provoke). This is Miriam or Mary.

28 And he cameXIX to her and said,XX “Greetings,XXI favored one!XXII

Notes on verse 28a

XIX “came” = eiserchomai. From eis (to, into, for, among) + erchomai (to come, go). This is to go in in a literal or figurative sense.
XX “said” = eiron. This is to speak say, answer, command.
XXI “greetings” = chairo. From char– (to extend favor, lean towards, be inclined to be favorable towards). This is to rejoice, be glad or cheerful; a greeting. This is the root verb that the Greek word for “grace” comes from (charis).
XXII “favored one” = charitoo. Related to “greetings” in v28. 2x in NT. From charis (grace, kindness, favor, gratitude, thanks; being inclined to or favorable towards – leaning towards someone to share some good or benefit; literal, figurative, or spiritual; grace as abstract concept, manner, or action); {from chairo (see note XXI above)}}. This is favored, to make graceful, bestow freely. It is to grace – shown special honor.

The LordXXIII is with you.”XXIV 

Notes on verse 28b

XXIII “Lord” = kurios. From kuros (authority, supremacy). This is a respectful address meaning master or sir. It refers to one who has control or power greater than one’s own. So, it was also applied to God and Jesus as Master or Lord.
XXIV Some manuscripts add: “blessed are you among women” = eulogeo + su + en + gune. Eulogeo is From eu (good, well, well done, rightly) + logos (word, statement, speech, analogy; a word that carries an idea or expresses a thought, a saying; a person with a message or reasoning laid out in words; by implication, a topic, line of reasoning, or a motive; can be used for a divine utterance or as Word – Christ); {from lego (to speak, tell, mention)}. Properly, this is speaking well of – speaking so that the other is benefited. It can mean praise, bless, thank, or call for a blessing. This is where “eulogy” comes from. Gune is perhaps from ginomai (to come into being, to happen, become, be born; to emerge from one state or condition to another; this is coming into being with the sense of movement or growth). This is woman, wife, or bride. This is where the word “gynecologist” comes from.

29 But she was much perplexedXXV by his wordsXXVI and ponderedXXVII what sort of greetingXXVIII this might be.XXIX 

Notes on verse 29

XXV “was much perplexed” = diatarasso. 1x in NT. From dia (through, for the sake of, across, thoroughly) + tarasso (trouble, agitate, stir up; motion back and forth, creating inner turmoil or confusion, roiling water). This is to agitate or trouble greatly. It can also refer to thorough distress.
XXVI “words” = logos. Related to {untranslated} in v28. See note XXIV above.
XXVII “pondered” = dialogizomai. Related to {untranslated} in v28 & “words” in v29. 16x in NT. From dia (through, because of, across, thoroughly) + logizomai (to compute or reckon up, to count; figuratively, it is coming to a conclusion or decision using logic; taking an inventory in a literal or figurative sense); {from logos (see note XXIV above). This is to consider, have a back and forth debate with an uncertain conclusion. It can be multiple confused minds reinforcing a faulty conclusion.
XXVIII “greeting” = aspasmos. 10x in NT. From aspazomai (to welcome, salute, or greet. It can also be to embrace or acclaim); {perhaps from a (with, together with) + a form of spao (to draw, draw out, pull)}. This is a greeting whether face to face or in a letter.
XXIX “be” = eimi. This is to be, exist.

30 The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid,XXX Mary, for you have foundXXXI favorXXXII with God. 

Notes on verse 30

XXX “be afraid” = phobeo. From phobos (panic flight, fear, fear being caused, terror, alarm, that which causes fear, reverence, respect); from phebomai (to flee, withdraw, be put to flight). This is also to put to flight, terrify, frighten, dread, reverence, to withdraw or avoid. It is sometimes used in a positive sense to mean the fear of the Lord, echoing Old Testament language. More commonly, it is fear of following God’s path. This is where the word phobia comes from.
XXXI “found” = heurisko. This is to find, learn, or obtain. It is to discover something, which generally implies a period of searching for it. This is to find in a literal or figurative sense. This is where the word “heuristic” comes from.
XXXII “favor” = charis. Related to “greetings” and “favored one” in v28. See note XXII above.

31 And now,XXXIII you will conceiveXXXIV in your wombXXXV and bearXXXVI a son,XXXVII

Notes on verse 31a

XXXIII “now” = idou. From eido (to be aware, see, know, remember, appreciate). This is see! Lo! Behold! Look! Used to express surprise and or draw attention to the statement.
XXXIV “conceive” = sullambano. 16x in NT. From sun (with, together with) + lambano (active acceptance/taking of what is available or what has been offered; emphasizes the choice and action of the individual). This is to take, take part in, conceive, help. It can also be clasp or seize as to arrest or take hold of someone.
XXXV “womb” = gaster. 9x in NT. This is belly or womb. It can be used specifically to mean pregnant. This is one of the roots of the word “gastronomy.”
XXXVI “bear” = tikto. 18x in NT. This is used of creating new life whether as a mother or a plant or the earth as a whole. It can be rendered bright forth, bear, give birth, labor, produce, or yield. It can also refers to the pains of childbirth.
XXXVII “son” = huios. This is son, descendant – a son whether natural born or adopted. It can be used figuratively for other forms of kinship.

and you will nameXXXVIII him Jesus.XXXIX 32 He will be greatXL and will be calledXLI

Notes on verses 31b-32a

XXXVIII “name” = kaleo + ho + onoma + autos. Literally, “call his name.” Kaleo is related to keleuo (to command, order, direct); from kelomai (to urge on). This is to call by name, invite, to name, bid, summon, call aloud. Onoma is the same as “called” in v26. See note IX above.
XXXIX “Jesus” = Iesous. From Hebrew Yehoshua (Joshua, the Lord is salvation); {from YHVH (proper name of the God of Israel; the self-existent and eternal one); {from havah (to become) or from hayah (to come to pass, become, be)} + yasha (to deliver, defend, help, preserve, rescue; properly, to be open, wide or free, which implies being safe. So, in a causative sense, this is to free someone)}. This is Jesus or Joshua in Greek – the Lord saves or the Lord is salvation.
XL “great” = megas. This is big in a literal or figurative sense – great, large, exceeding, abundant, high, mighty, perfect, strong, etc.
XLI “called” = kaleo. Same as “name” in v31. See note XXXVIII above.

the Son of the Most High,XLII and the Lord God will giveXLIII to him the throneXLIV of his ancestorXLV David. 

Notes on verse 32b

XLII “Most High” = hupistos. 13x in NT. From hupsos (height, high position, heaven, dignity, eminence; elevation, altitude; to be exalted); from hupsi (on high, aloft); from huper (over, above, beyond) This is highest, heights, heaven. It can also refer to God as Most High or the Supreme One.
XLIII “give” = didomi. To give, offer, place, bestow, deliver. This is give in a literal or figurative sense.
XLIV “throne” = thronos. Probably from thanos (bench); from thrao (to sit). This is throne or seat – the place where the king sits. So, it is used figuratively to mean power, dominion, or a potentate. This is where the word “throne” comes from.
XLV “ancestor” = pater. This is father in a literal or figurative sense. Could be elder, senior, ancestor, originator, or patriarch.

33 He will reignXLVI over the house of JacobXLVII forever,XLVIII and of his kingdomXLIX there will be no end.”L 

Notes on verse 33

XLVI “reign” = basileuo. From basileus (king, emperor, sovereign); probably from basis (step, hence foot; a pace); from baino (to walk, to go). This is to reign as king, to rule in a literal or figurative sense.
XLVII “Jacob” = Iakob. From Hebrew Yaaqob (Jacob); from the same as aqeb (heel, hind part, hoof, rear guard of an army, one who lies in wait, usurper). This is James, meaning heel grabber or usurper.
XLVIII “forever” = eis + ho + aion. Aion is from the same as aei (ever, always, unceasingly, perpetually; on every occasion). This is an age, cycle of time, course, continued duration. It is also used to describe the eternal or forever. This is the word used to discuss the present age or the messianic age.
XLIX “kingdom” = basileia. Related to “reign” in v33. From basileus (see note XLVI above). This is kingdom, rule, authority, sovereignty, royalty, a realm.
L “end” = telos. From tel– (to reach a goal or aim); This is an end, aim, purpose, completion, goal, consummation, or tax. It is completing a stage of something and everything that results from that completion. It can be literal or figurative.

34 Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I am a virgin?”LI 

35 The angel saidLII to her,LIII “The HolyLIV SpiritLV

Notes on verses 34-35a

LI “I am a virgin” = aner + ou + ginosko. Literally, “a man I do not know.” Aner is the same as “man” in v27. See note XIII above. Ginosko is related to “called” in v. See note IX above.
LII “said” = apokrinomai. From apo (from, away from) + krino (to judge, decide, think good, condemn, determine, pass judgment, stand trial, sue; judging whether in court or in a private setting; properly, mentally separating or distinguishing an issue – to come to a choice or decision, to judge positively or negatively in seeking what is right or wrong, who is innocent or guilty; can imply trying, condemning, punishing, or avenging). This is to reply or respond, to draw one’s own conclusions, to speak when one is expected to.
LIII {untranslated} = eiron. Same as “said” in v28. See note XX above.
LIV “Holy” = hagios. From hagnos (holy, sacred, pure ethically, ritually, or ceremonially; prepared for worship, chaste, unadulterated, pure to the core; undefiled by sin; figurative for innocent, modest, perfect). God is totally different from humanity and thus set apart. That which is consecrated to worship God (elements of worship) or to serve God (as the saints) are holy because they are now set apart for God’s purposes. Holy because important to God. This is sacred physically, pure. It can be morally blameless or ceremonially consecrated.
LV “Spirit” = pneuma. From pneo (to blow, breathe, breathe hard). This is wind, breath, or ghost. A breeze or a blast or air, a breath. Figuratively used for a spirit, the human soul or part of us that is rational. It is also used supernaturally for angels, demons, God, and the Holy Spirit. This is where pneumonia comes from.

will comeLVI upon you, and the powerLVII of the Most High will overshadowLVIII you; therefore the child to be bornLIX will be holy; he will be calledLX Son of God. 

Notes on verse 35b

LVI “come” = eperchomai. Related to “came” in v28. 10x in NT. From epi (on, upon, to, against, what is fitting) + erchomai (see note XIX above). This is to come upon, arrive, occur. It focuses on the impact or influence beyond the initial coming.
LVII “power” = dunamis. From dunamai (to be able, have power or ability). This is might, strength, physical power, efficacy, energy, and miraculous power. It is force literally or figuratively – the power of a miracle or the miracle itself.
LVIII “overshadow” = episkiazo. 5x in NT– 3x in the Transfiguration, 1x of the annunciation, 1x of Peter healing the sick with his shadow. From epi (on, upon, against, what is fitting) + skia (shadow, thick darkness, outline; figurative for a spiritual situation that is good or bad). This is to envelop, cast a shadow on.
LIX “child to be born” = gennao. Related to {untranslated} in v28. From genna (descent, birth); from genos (family, offspring, kin – in a literal or figurative sense); from ginomai (see note XXIV above). This is to beget, give birth to, or bring forth. Properly, it refers to procreation by the father, but was used of the mother by extension. Figuratively, this can mean to regenerate.
LX “called” = kaleo. Same as “name” in v31. See note XXXVIII above.

36 And now, your relativeLXI ElizabethLXII in her old ageLXIII has also conceived a son,

Notes on verse 36a

LXI “relative” = suggenes. Related to {untranslated} in v28 & “child to be born” in v35. 12x in NT. From sun (with, together with) + genos (see note LIX above)}. This is relative, kinsman, offspring, or otherwise someone from the same stock. It can also be used for a fellow countryman.
LXII “Elizabeth” = Elisabet. Related to “Gabriel” in v26. 9x in NT. From Hebrew Elisheba (Elisheba, “God is an oath”); {from El (see note IV above) + sheba (seven – the number of perfection/sacred fullness); {from shaba (to swear, curse, vow, make a covenant; properly, to be complete; this is to seven oneself – as in affirming something so strongly it is as though it were said seven times)}}. This is Elizabeth or Elisabet, meaning “God is an oath.”
LXIII “old age” = geras. 1x in NT. Perhaps related to geron (old, aged). This is old age or senility. It shares a write with gerontology.

and this is the sixth month for her who was said to beLXIV barren.LXV 37 For nothingLXVI will be impossibleLXVII with God.” 

Notes on verses 36b-37

LXIV “said to be” = kaleo. Same as “name” in v31. See note XXXVIII above.
LXV “barren” = steira. 5x in NT. From steiros (barren) OR from stereos (hard, solid, steadfast, sure, stable; solid in a literal or figurative sense). This is barren or sterile. It may be from the root as stiff or not natural. This is the root that “sterile” comes from.
LXVI “nothing” = oupas + rhema. Pas is all or every. Rhema is from rheo (to speak, command, make, say, speak of); from ereo (to all, say, speak of, tell; denotes ongoing speech). This is word, which implies a matter or thing spoken, a command, report, promise, thing, or business. Often used for narration, commands, or disputes.
LXVII “be impossible” = adunateo. Related to “power” in v35. 2x in NT. From adunatos (powerless, unable, impotent, or impossible; weak in a literal or figurative sense); {from a (not, without) + dunatos (mighty or powerful; ability of persons, possibility of things; what can be given the power or ability that the subject exhibits); {from dunamai (see note LVII above)}}. This is to be unable or impossible.

38 Then Mary said,LXVIII “Here am I,LXIX the servantLXX of the Lord; let it beLXXI with me according to your word.”LXXII Then the angel departedLXXIII from her.

Notes on verse 38

LXVIII “said” = eiron. Same as “said” in v28. See note XX above.
LXIX “here am I” = idou. Same as “now” in v31. See note XXXIII above.
LXX “servant” = doule. 3x in NT– 2x of Mary, 1x of Pentecost. From doulos (a servant or for a slave, enslaved; someone who belongs to someone else, but could be voluntary to pay off debt or involuntary – captured in war and enslaved; a metaphor for serving Christ); perhaps from deo (to tie, bind, fasten, impel, compel; to declare something against the law or prohibited). This is female slave or bondservant.
LXXI “be” = ginomai. Related to {untranslated} in v28 & “child to be born” in v35 & “relative” in v36. See note XXIV above.
LXXII “word” = rhema. Same as “nothing” in v37. See note LXVI above.
LXXIII “departed” = aperchomai. Related to “came” in v28 & “come” in v35. From apo (from, away from) + erchomai (see note XIX above). This is to depart, follow, or go off in a literal or figurative sense.

39 In those daysLXXIV Mary set outLXXV and wentLXXVI with hasteLXXVII

Notes on verse 39a

LXXIV “days” = hemera. Perhaps from hemai (to sit). This is day, time, or daybreak.
LXXV “set out” = anistemi. Related to “sent” in v26. From ana (upwards, up, again, back, anew) + histemi (see note V above). This is to raise up, rise, appear. It is to stand up literally or figuratively. Can also mean to resurrect.
LXXVI “went” = poreuomai. From poros (ford, passageway). This is to go, travel, journey, or die. It refers to transporting things from one place to another and focuses on the personal significance of the destination.
LXXVII “haste” = spoude. 12x in NT. From speudo (to hurry, urge on, await); probably from pous (foot in a figurative or literal sense). This is haste, diligence, earnestness, effort. It is being swift to demonstrate one’s enthusiasm. It is doing what one is told right away and with full effort.

to a JudeanLXXVIII town in the hill country,LXXIX 40 where she enteredLXXX the house of ZechariahLXXXI and greetedLXXXII Elizabeth. 

Notes on verses 39b-40

LXXVIII “Judean” = Iouda. 8x in NT. From the same as Ioudas (Judah, Juadas); from Hebrew Yehudah (Judah, son of Jacob, his tribal descendants, a name for the southern kingdom. Literally, it means praised); probably from yadah (to throw one’s hands into the air in a gesture of praise); from yad (hand). This is Judah, Judas, or Jude.
LXXIX “hill country” = oreinos. 2x in NT. From oros (mountain, hill). This is mountainous or hilly. Here, it refers to Judean highlands.
LXXX “entered” = eiserchomai. Same as “came” in v28. See note XIX above.
LXXXI “Zechariah” = Zacharias. Related to “Jesus” in v31. 11x in NT. From Hebrew Zekaryah (Zechariah, “the Lord has remembered”); {from zakar (to remember, to mark something so that it can be recalled, to be mindful of, to mention) + Yah (the shortened form of the name of the God of Israel; God, Lord); {from YHVH (see note XXXIX above)}. This is Zechariah, Zacharias, meaning “the Lord has remembered.”
LXXXII “greeted” = aspazomai. Related to “greeting” in v29. See note XXVIII above.

41 LXXXIIIWhen Elizabeth heardLXXXIV Mary’s greeting,LXXXV the childLXXXVI leapedLXXXVII in her womb.LXXXVIII

Notes on verse 41a

LXXXIII {untranslated} = ginomai. Same as “be” in v38. See note LXXI above.
LXXXIV “heard” = akouo. This is hear or listen, but it also means to understand by hearing. This is where the word “acoustics” comes from.
LXXXV “greeting” = aspasmos. Same as “greeting” in v29. See note XXVIII above.
LXXXVI “child” = brephos. 8x in NT. This is used of a fetus (as when the child leapt in Elizabeth’s womb on seeing Mary in Luke 1:41) or a newborn (as the child found in the manger in Luke 2:12). It is a young child or an infant in a literal or figurative sense.
LXXXVII “leaped” = skirtao. 3x in NT. From skairo (to skip). This is to leap or jump, to bound. It can refer to a quickening.
LXXXVIII “womb” = koilia. From koilos (hollow). This is belly or organs in the abdomen. So, it could be stomach, womb, or heart. Figuratively, this refers to one’s inner self.

And Elizabeth was filledLXXXIX with the Holy Spirit 42 and exclaimedXC with a loudXCI cry,XCII, XCIII

Notes on verses 41b-42a

LXXXIX “filled” = pleitho. This is to fill to the highest level possible – to accomplish, supply, or complete.
XC “exclaimed” = anaphoneo. 1x in NT. From ana (up, again, back, anew) + phoneo (to call out, summon, shout, address; making a sound whether of an animal, a person, or an instrument); {from phone (voice, sound, tone or noise; also a language or dialect); probably from phemi to declare, say, use contrasts in speaking to shed light on one point of view); {from phao (to shine) or phaino (to bring light, cause to appear, shine, become visible or clear)}. This is to exclaim, cry out, shout.
XCI “loud” = megas. Same as “great” in v32. See note XL above.
XCII “cry” = krauge. 6x in NT. From krazo (to cry out, scream, shriek; onomatopoeia for the sound of a raven’s call; figuratively, this is means crying out urgently without intelligible words to express something that is deeply felt). This is a very emotional shout or cry generally or clamor against someone else. It can express alarm, trouble, or grief.
XCIII {untranslated} = eiron. Same as “said” in v28. See note XX above.

“Blessed areXCIV you among women,XCV and blessed isXCVI the fruitXCVII of your womb.XCVIII 

Notes on verse 42b

XCIV “blessed are” = eulogeo. Same as {untranslated} in v28. See note XXIV above.
XCV “women” = gune. Same as {untranslated} in v28. See note XXIV above.
XCVI “blessed is” = eulogeo. Same as {untranslated} in v28. See note XXIV above.
XCVII “fruit” = karpos. Perhaps from harpazo (to seize by force, snatch away); from haireo (to choose, take). This is a fruit or vegetable, through sometimes it refers to an animal. Figuratively, it is deeds, results, profits, or gain.
XCVIII “womb” = koilia. Same as “womb” in v41. See note LXXXVIII above.

43 And why has this happened to me, that the motherXCIX of my Lord comesC to me? 44 ForCI as soon as I heardCII the soundCIII of your greeting,CIV

Notes on verses 43-44a

XCIX “mother” = meter. This is mother in a literal or figurative sense.
C “comes” = erchomai. Related to “came” in v28 & “come” in v35 & “departed” in v38. See note XIX above.
CI {untranslated} = idou. Same as “now” in v31. See note XXXIII above.
CII “heard” = ginomaious. Ginomai is the same as “be” in v38. See note LXXI above. Ous is the physical ear, or the perception of hearing, whether physical or cognitive.
CIII “sound” = phone. Related to “exclaimed” in v42. See note XC above.
CIV “greeting” = aspasmos. Same as “greeting” in v29. See note XXVIII above.

the childCV in my wombCVI leaped for joy.CVII 

Notes on verse 44b

CV “child” = brephos. Same as “child” In v41. See note LXXXVI above.
CVI “womb” = koilia. Same as “womb” in v41. See note LXXXVIII above.
CVII “joy” = agalliasis. 5x in NT. From agalliao (joy that prompts you to jump up. It is a full body experience of joy: exulting, rejoicing, or even boasting from joy); from agallomai (to exalt, make glorious) {from agan (much, very) + hallomai (to leap or leap up; when referring to water, springing up or bubbling up; to jump or figuratively to gush)}. This is exultation, wild joy, exhilaration, gladness, or welcome.

45 And blessedCVIII is she who believedCIX that there would be a fulfillmentCX of what was spokenCXI to her by the Lord.”

Notes on verse 45

CVIII “blessed” = makarios. From makar (happy); from mak– (to become long or large). This is blessed, happy, fortunate. It is when God’s grace/abundance is extended.
CIX “believed” = pisteuo. From pistis (faith, faithfulness, belief, trust, confidence; to be persuaded or come to trust); from peitho (to have confidence, urge, be persuaded, agree, assure, believe, have confidence, trust). This is to believe, entrust, have faith it, affirm, have confidence in. This is less to do with a series of beliefs or doctrines that one believes and more to do with faithfulness, loyalty, and fidelity. It is trusting and then acting based on that trust.
CX “fulfillment” = teleiosis. Related to “end” in v33. 2x in NT. From teleioo (to finish, accomplish, bring to an end, complete, reach a goal, finish a race, to consummate; completing stages or phases to get to an ultimate conclusion; to consecrate or fulfill); from teleios (going through the steps to complete a stage or phase and then moving on to the next one; reaching an end and so being complete or “perfect”; also full grown or mature); from telos (see note L above). This is completion, consummation, fulfillment, perfection, absolution.
CXI “spoken” = laleo. From lalos (talkative). This is to talk, say, or preach.

46 And Mary said,CXII

“My soulCXIII magnifiesCXIV the Lord,

Notes on verse 46

CXII “said” = eiron. Same as “said” in v28. See note XX above.
CXIII “soul” = psuche. From psucho (to breathe, blow). This is breath, the breath of life, the self, individual, soul. This is the word for that which makes a person unique – their identity, will, personality, affections. This isn’t the soul as the immortal part of us, but as our individuality. It is also not life as a general concept, but specific to people. This is where the words psyche and psychology come from.
CXIV “magnifies” = megaluno. Related to “great” in v32. 8x in NT. From megas (see note XL above). This is the same word used in Mary’s song of praise in Luke 1:46 “my soul magnifies the Lord.” This is to make great, increase, extoll, magnify. It is increase in a literal or figurative sense.

47     and my spirit rejoicesCXV in God my Savior,CXVI
48 for he has lookedCXVII with favor on the lowly stateCXVIII of his servant.

Notes on verses 47-48a

CXV “rejoices” = agalliao. Related to “joy” in v44. 11x in NT. See note CVII above.
CXVI “Savior” = soter. From sozo (to save, heal, preserve, or rescue. Properly, this is taking someone from danger to safety. It can be delivering or protecting literally or figuratively); from sos (safe, rescued, well). This is savior, deliverer, preserver.
CXVII “looked” = epiblepo. 3x in NT– including the Magnificat “God has looked with favor on the lowliness of God’s servant” in Luke 1:48. From epi (on, upon, against, what is fitting) + blepo (to see, used primarily in the physical sense; figuratively, seeing, which includes attention and so to watchfulness, being observant, perceiving, beware, and acting on the visual information). This is to look at, to regard with favor, to pay focused attention or give special regard to something, to gaze at with pity, to be partial to.
CXVIII “lowly state” = tapeinosis. 4x in NT– in Luke 1:48 in the Magnificat “God has looked with favor on the lowliness of God’s servant.” From tapeinoo (bringing someone or something low; figuratively to humble or humiliate – to depress or abase); from tapeinos (low in position, depressed, low in circumstance; fig humiliated, low in spirit). This is humiliation, lowliness, low state, depression.

    SurelyCXIX from now on allCXX generationsCXXI will call me blessed,CXXII

Notes on verse 48b

CXIX “surely” = idou. Same as “now” in v31. See note XXXIII above.
CXX “all” = pas. Same as “nothing” in v37. See note LXVI above.
CXXI “generations” = genea. Related to {untranslated} in v28 & “child to be born” in v35 & “relative” in v36 & “be” in v38. From genos (see note LIX above). This is family, generation, kind, or nation. As generation, it implies an age as a period of time. It can also mean infinity. This is the root of the word “generation.
CXXII “call…blessed” = makarizo. Related to “blessed” in v45. 2x in NT. From makarios (see note CVIII above). This is to bless, call happy, consider one fortunate.

49 for the Mighty OneCXXIII has doneCXXIV great thingsCXXV for me,
    and holy is his name;CXXVI
50 indeed, his mercyCXXVII is for those who fearCXXVIII him
    from generation to generation.

Notes on verses 49-50

CXXIII “Mighty One” = dunatos. Related to “power” in v35 & “be impossible” in v37. See note LXVII above.
CXXIV “done” = poieo. This is to make, do, act, construct, abide, or cause.
CXXV “great things” = megas. Same as “great” in v32. See note XL above.
CXXVI “name” = onoma. Same as “called” in v26. See note IX above.
CXXVII “mercy” = eleos. This is mercy, pity, tender mercy, or compassion, whether from humans or from God. This is mercy, generally understood in action by word or deed. When we sing or say “kyrie eleison” (Lord, have mercy), it is related to this word.
CXXVIII “fear” = phobeo. Same as “be afraid” in v30. See note XXX above.

51 He has shownCXXIX strengthCXXX with his arm;CXXXI

Notes on verse 51a

CXXIX “shown” = poieo. Same as “done” in v49. See note CXXIV above.
CXXX “strength” = kratos. 12x in NT. This is strength, power, or dominion. It is vigor in a literal or figurative sense or power that is exercised.
CXXXI “arm” = brachion. 3x in NT. From brachus (little, few, a short time). This is arm, which can metaphorically refer to strength. It shares a root with the “brachial” artery.

    he has scatteredCXXXII the proudCXXXIII in the imaginationCXXXIV of their hearts.CXXXV

Notes on verse 51b

CXXXII “scattered” = diaskorpizo. 9x in NT. From dia (through, on account of, across, thoroughly) + skorpizo (to scatter, distribute, dissipate, waste). This is to separate or disperse. Figuratively, it can be squander or waste.
CXXXIII “proud” = huperephanos. Related to “exclaimed” in v42 & “sound” in v44. 5x in NT. From huper (over, beyond, concerning) + phaino (see note XC above). This is proud, arrogant, disdainful. Properly, this word is to over-shine. To set oneself over others as being haughty.
CXXXIV “imagination” = dianoia. Related to “called” in v26 & {untranslated} in v34. 12x in NT. From dia (through, because of, across, thoroughly) + noieo (to perceive, think, understand); {from nous (mind, understanding, reasoning faculty, intellect, capacity to reflect); ginosko (see note IX above)}. This is thought, intellect, or insight. It is thorough, critical thinking to reason through issues to reach a conclusion that is both logically sound and personal.
CXXXV “hearts” = kardia. Literally the heart, but figuratively mind, character, inner self, will, intention, thoughts, feelings. Also, the center of something. The word heart is only used figuratively in the Old and New Testaments. This is where “cardiac” comes from.

52 He has brought downCXXXVI the powerfulCXXXVII from their thrones
    and lifted upCXXXVIII the lowly;CXXXIX

Notes on verse 52

CXXXVI “brought down” = kathaireo. Related to “fruit” in v42. 9x in NT. From kata (down, against, throughout, among) + haireo (see note XCVII above)}. This is to take down, destroy, depose, forcibly yank. It is to lower violently, whether literally or figuratively.
CXXXVII “powerful” = dunastes. Related to “power” in v35 & “be impossible” in v37 & “mighty one” in v49. 3x in NT. From dunamai (see note LVII above). This is ruler, powerful, or court official. It is someone who has power and authority or, by extension, someone in the royal court.
CXXXVIII “lifted up” = hupsoo. Related to “Most High” in v32. From hupsos (see note XLII above). This is to elevate in a literal or figurative sense. So it could be to raise up or set something in a high place or to exalt or make something great.
CXXXIX “lowly” = tapeinos. Related to “lowliness” in v48. 8x in NT. See note CXVIII above.

53 he has filledCXL the hungryCXLI with good thingsCXLII

Notes on verse 53a

CXL “filled” = empiplemi. 5x in NT– including the Magnificat in Luke 1:53 “God has filled the hungry with good things.” From en (in, on, at, by, with, among) + same as pleistos (most, very great, much, very numerous); {from polus (much, often, plenteous – a large number or a great extent)}. This is to fill up or satisfy literally or figuratively.
CXLI “hungry” = peinao. From peina (hunger); related to penomai (working for a living; laborer, poor person; to work for daily bread); from peno (to toil to survive day by day). This is to hunger, be needy, or desire earnestly. It can be being famished in a definitive sense or in comparison to someone or something else. Figuratively, this means to crave.
CXLII “good things” = agathos. This is good, a benefit, or a good thing. It is good by its very nature, intrinsically good. A different word, kalos, refers to external signs of goodness.

    and sent the richCXLIII awayCXLIV empty.CXLV

Notes on verse 53b

CXLIII “rich” = plouteo. Related to “filled” in v53. 12x in NT. From ploutizo (to enrich, cause abundance, bring fullness); from ploutos (abundance, wealth, or riches; money, possessions, spiritual abundance, or a valuable bestowment); from polus (see note CXL above) OR pleo (to sail, voyage); {probably from pluno (to plunge – so to wash); from pluo (to flow)} OR pletho (to fill, accomplish, supply; to fill to maximum capacity). This is to be rich or abound in. It is to be or get wealth in a literal or figurative sense.
CXLIV “sent…away” = exapostello. Related to “sent” in v26 & “set out” in v39. 13x in NT. From ek (from, from out of) + apostello (see note V above). This is to send away, dismiss, send someone for a mission.
CXLV “empty” = kenos. 18x in NT. Properly, this is something that is empty or void. Hence, it is worthless, foolish, ineffective, morally void, pretentious, unreal, or false.

54 He has come to the aidCXLVI of his childCXLVII Israel,CXLVIII
    in remembranceCXLIX of his mercy,

Notes on verse 54

CXLVI “come to the aid” = antilambano. Related to “conceive” in v31. 3x in NT. From anti (over against, instead of, corresponding to) + lambano (see note XXIV above). This is to take instead of, take hold of, help, share in, partake of, enjoy. Properly, to take hold in a way that is proportional or fitting – acting in a way that corresponds to what is needed in the situation. In terms of helping, this is giving the help that matches what is really needed.
CXLVII “child” = pais. Perhaps from paio (to strike or sting). This is child, youth, servant, or slave.
CXLVIII “Israel” = Israel. Related to “Gabriel” in v26 & “Elizabeth” in v36. From Hebrew Yisrael (God strives or one who strives with God; new name for Jacob and for his offspring); {from sarah (to persist, exert oneself, contend, persevere, wrestle, prevail) + El (see note IV above)}. This is Israel the people and the land.
CXLIX “remembrance” = mimnesko. Related to “engaged” in v27. From mnaomai (see note XII above). This is to remind or remember. It is memory through an active, intentional process or being mindful of. It is not incidentally or accidentally remembering.

55 according to the promise he madeCL to our ancestors,
    to AbrahamCLI and to his descendantsCLII forever.”

Notes on verse 55

CL “promise…made” = laleo. Same as “spoken” in v45. See note CXI above.
CLI “Abraham” = Abraam. From Hebrew Abraham (exalted father); from the same as Abiram (exalted father, a high father – lofty) {from ab (father literal or figurative) + rum (rise, bring up, being high, extol, exalt, haughty; to raise in a literal or figurative sense)}. This is Abraham, father of many nations or father of a multitude.
CLII “descendants” = sperma. Related to “greeting” in v29 & “greeted” in v40. From speiro (to sow seed, spread, scatter); perhaps from spao (see note XXVIII above). This is something sown so it could be seed or offspring and descendants. This is where the word “sperm” comes from.

56 And Mary remainedCLIII with her about threeCLIV months and then returnedCLV to her home.CLVI

Notes on verse 56

CLIII “remained” = meno. Related to “engaged” in v27 & “remembrance” in v54. See note XII above.
CLIV “three” = treis. This is three.
CLV “returned” = hupostrepho. From hupo (by, under, about) + strepho (to turn, change, turn back, be converted; to turn around completely to take the opposite path or a completely different one); {from trope (turning, shifting, a revolution; figuratively, a variation); from trepo (to turn)}. This is to turn back or behind in a literal or figurative sense.
CLVI “home” = oikos. Same as “house” in v27. See note XVI above.


Image credit: Detail of “The Holy Family” stained glass window, showing the Annunciation at St. Mary of the Rosary in County Mayo, Ireland. Created by Richard King of Harry Clarke Studios, Dublin. Photo by Andreas F. Borchert, 2019.

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