King James Version

What Does Luke 1:40 Mean?

Luke 1:40 in the King James Version says “And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth. — study this verse from Luke chapter 1 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth.

Luke 1:40 · KJV


Context

38

And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.

39

And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Juda;

40

And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth.

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:

42

And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Mary's entrance into Zacharias's house and salutation of Elisabeth sets the stage for the Spirit-filled recognition that follows. The specific mention of saluting Elisabeth (not Zacharias) suggests intentional seeking of female fellowship. Mary's greeting triggers the Holy Spirit's manifestation in Elisabeth and John's womb, showing how God uses ordinary human interaction as occasions for extraordinary spiritual revelation. The simplicity of this domestic scene—one woman greeting another—becoming the context for prophetic utterance demonstrates that God works through normal life circumstances to reveal His purposes.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The customary Jewish greeting 'Shalom' (peace) took on profound significance as Mary, carrying the Prince of Peace, greeted Elisabeth, carrying His forerunner. This meeting of two miracle-bearing women in a Judean home became a pivotal moment in redemptive history.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God use ordinary greetings and interactions for extraordinary purposes?
  2. What is the value of godly female fellowship in spiritual growth and confirmation?
  3. How can we be attentive to God's work in everyday encounters?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 10 words
καὶ1 of 10

And

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

εἰσῆλθεν2 of 10

entered

G1525

to enter (literally or figuratively)

εἰς3 of 10

into

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

τὸν4 of 10
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

οἶκον5 of 10

the house

G3624

a dwelling (more or less extensive, literal or figurative); by implication, a family (more or less related, literally or figuratively)

Ζαχαρίου6 of 10

of Zacharias

G2197

zacharias (i.e., zechariah), the name of two israelites

καὶ7 of 10

And

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ἠσπάσατο8 of 10

saluted

G782

to enfold in the arms, i.e., (by implication) to salute, (figuratively) to welcome

τὴν9 of 10
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

Ἐλισάβετ10 of 10

Elisabeth

G1665

elisabet, an israelitess


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Luke. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Luke 1:40 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

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