King James Version
What Does Luke 1:56 Mean?
“And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned to her own house.”
Context
54
He hath holpen his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy;
55
As he spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed for ever.
56
And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned to her own house.
57
Now Elisabeth's full time came that she should be delivered; and she brought forth a son.
58
And her neighbours and her cousins heard how the Lord had shewed great mercy upon her; and they rejoiced with her.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(56) **And Mary abode with her about three months.**—This brings the time so close to the birth of the Baptist that we might well deem it likely that the Virgin waited for it. On the other hand, the next verse seems almost to imply her previous departure. In any case, we may think of the three months as a time of much communion of heart and hope on the great things which God had done and was about to do for Israel.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 1:56 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.