King James Version
What Does Luke 1:9 Mean?
“According to the custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord.”
Context
7
And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren, and they both were now well stricken in years.
8
And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest's office before God in the order of his course,
9
According to the custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord.
10
And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time of incense.
11
And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(9)**His lot was to burn incense.**—The order of the courses was, as has been said, one of rotation. The distribution of functions during the week was determined by lot. That of offering incense, symbolising, as it did, the priestly work of presenting the prayers of the people, and joining his own with them (Psalm 141:2; Revelation 5:8), was of all priestly acts the most distinctive (2Chronicles 26:18). At such a moment all the hopes of one who looked for the Christ as the consolation of Israel would gather themselves into one great intercession.
**Into the temple of the Lord**—i.e., the Holy Place, into which none but the priests might enter.
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 1:9 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Luke 1:9
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge