King James Version

What Does Luke 1:56 Mean?

Luke 1:56 in the King James Version says “And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned to her own house. — study this verse from Luke chapter 1 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned to her own house.

Luke 1:56 · KJV


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

KJV Study Commentary
Mary's three-month stay with Elisabeth provided mutual encouragement during their miraculous pregnancies. The specific duration—likely until John's birth—gave Mary support through her vulnerable first trimester and allowed the two women to marvel together at God's work. Her return home afterward suggests she departed before John's birth, possibly to avoid drawing attention from her growing pregnancy. This extended visit demonstrates the value of Christian fellowship during significant spiritual experiences and trials. Mary's willingness to serve and learn from an older, godly woman models humility and wisdom in seeking spiritual mentorship.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The three-month visit meant Mary was present during Elisabeth's final trimester, providing practical help and spiritual fellowship. Her departure before John's circumcision and naming allowed that event to focus on God's work in Zacharias and Elisabeth's family without complications from Mary's situation.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does extended Christian fellowship strengthen faith during trials?
  2. What value is there in seeking counsel from older, more mature believers?
  3. Why is it sometimes wise to withdraw from situations even when not required?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 14 words
Ἔμεινεν1 of 14

abode

G3306

to stay (in a given place, state, relation or expectancy)

δὲ2 of 14

And

G1161

but, and, etc

Μαριὰμ3 of 14

Mary

G3137

maria or mariam (i.e., mirjam), the name of six christian females

σὺν4 of 14

with

G4862

with or together (but much closer than g3326 or g3844), i.e., by association, companionship, process, resemblance, possession, instrumentality, additi

αὐτῆς5 of 14

her

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

ὡσεὶ6 of 14

about

G5616

as if

μῆνας7 of 14

months

G3376

a month

τρεῖς8 of 14

three

G5140

"three"

καὶ9 of 14

and

G2532

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

ὑπέστρεψεν10 of 14

returned

G5290

to turn under (behind), i.e., to return (literally or figuratively)

εἰς11 of 14

to

G1519

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

τὸν12 of 14
G3588

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

οἶκον13 of 14

house

G3624

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

αὐτῆς14 of 14

her

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons


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 1:56 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

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