Luke 1:40

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} entered {G1525} into {G1519} the house {G3624} of Zacharias {G2197}, and {G2532} saluted {G782} Elisabeth {G1665}.

Complete Jewish Bible

where Z'kharyah lived, entered his house and greeted Elisheva.

Berean Standard Bible

where she entered the home of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth.

American Standard Version

and entered into the house of Zacharias and saluted Elisabeth.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 1:40 marks the pivotal moment of the Visitation, where Mary, freshly informed of her miraculous conception of Jesus, arrives at the home of her relative Elisabeth, who is also miraculously pregnant with John the Baptist. This verse describes Mary's physical entry into the house of Zacharias and her initial greeting to Elisabeth, setting the stage for a profound spiritual encounter that confirms God's unfolding redemptive plan through the lives of these two divinely chosen women.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Luke 1:40 immediately follows Mary's hastened journey to the Judean hill country, as described in [Luke 1:39](/luke/1-39 "Luke 1:39 - Mary's Journey to Elisabeth"). This journey is a direct response to the angelic announcement in [Luke 1:26-38](/luke/1-26-38 "Luke 1:26-38 - The Annunciation to Mary"), where Gabriel not only foretold Jesus's birth but also offered Elisabeth's miraculous pregnancy as a sign of God's power ([Luke 1:36](/luke/1-36 "Luke 1:36 - Elisabeth's Pregnancy as a Sign")). The act of Mary "entering" and "saluting" Elisabeth in verse 40 serves as the crucial trigger for the dramatic spiritual recognition and prophetic utterance that immediately follows in [Luke 1:41-45](/luke/1-41-45 "Luke 1:41-45 - Elisabeth's Prophetic Greeting"). This verse, therefore, is the threshold to one of the most significant pre-birth encounters in the New Testament, linking the two miraculous conceptions and affirming the divine orchestration of events.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Jewish society, kinship ties were extremely strong, and visiting relatives, especially those in need or experiencing significant life events like pregnancy, was a common and expected practice. The "hill country of Judah" was a rugged, often remote region, suggesting Mary's journey was not a casual stroll but a purposeful and perhaps arduous undertaking. The social stigma associated with barrenness (like Elisabeth's prior condition) meant her pregnancy was a profound reversal of fortune and a public sign of divine favor. Mary, a young, unwed woman facing an unprecedented pregnancy, would naturally seek the counsel and support of an older, trusted relative who also understood the miraculous hand of God. The greeting itself, as further analyzed, was far more than a casual "hello," carrying cultural weight of respect, affection, and acknowledgment of status.

* **Key Themes:** Luke 1:40 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Luke's Gospel and the broader biblical narrative. It highlights the theme of **Divine Confirmation**, as Mary's visit provides tangible proof of Gabriel's words regarding Elisabeth, strengthening Mary's faith. It underscores the theme of **God's Unexpected Ways**, demonstrating how God uses humble individuals and seemingly ordinary human connections to advance His extraordinary plan, a theme prevalent throughout [Luke's Gospel](/luke/1 "The Gospel of Luke"). Furthermore, the verse sets the stage for the theme of **Prophetic Recognition** and **Messianic Anticipation**, as the very presence of the Messiah (in Mary's womb) immediately elicits a spiritual response from John the Baptist (in Elisabeth's womb) in [Luke 1:41](/luke/1-41 "Luke 1:41 - John's Leap in the Womb"), confirming Jesus's unique identity even before His birth. Finally, it subtly introduces the theme of **Joy and Fellowship**, as this encounter brings mutual encouragement and sets the stage for the Magnificat, Mary's song of praise, in [Luke 1:46-55](/luke/1-46-55 "Luke 1:46-55 - Mary's Song of Praise (Magnificat)").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **entered (Greek, _eisérchomai'_):** From the Greek G1525, this verb signifies not merely a casual stepping across a threshold but a purposeful "coming in" or "going in." It implies a deliberate act of arrival and integration into a space. In this context, Mary's "entering" is an intentional movement, driven by divine instruction and personal faith, leading her into the very heart of Zacharias's household, a place where God's miraculous work was already evident.
* **house (Greek, _oîkos'_):** The Greek G3624, _oîkos_, refers to more than just a physical dwelling. While it denotes a "dwelling," it also carries the broader implication of a "family" or "household." Thus, Mary is not just entering a building but becoming part of the intimate domestic sphere of Zacharias and Elisabeth, a place of shared life, faith, and now, miraculous pregnancies. This emphasizes the personal and relational nature of the encounter.
* **saluted (Greek, _aspázomai'_):** The Greek G782, _aspázomai_, is a rich term for greeting. It means "to enfold in the arms," implying a warm, affectionate greeting, often involving an embrace, a blessing, or a welcoming. It is far more profound than a simple "hello." Mary's "salutation" was not merely polite but carried a spiritual weight, signaling a heartfelt recognition and welcome that immediately triggered a divine response in Elisabeth and the child within her, as described in the subsequent verses.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And entered into the house of Zacharias":** This clause describes Mary's arrival and penetration into the private sphere of her relatives. Her journey, undertaken "with haste" ([Luke 1:39](/luke/1-39 "Luke 1:39 - Mary's Haste")), culminates in this entry. The mention of "the house of Zacharias" emphasizes the patriarchal head of the household, but the focus quickly shifts to Elisabeth, the woman with whom Mary shares a unique spiritual bond and experience. This entry signifies the convergence of two miraculous pregnancies under one roof, orchestrated by God.
* **"and saluted Elisabeth":** This second clause describes Mary's immediate action upon entering. The act of "saluting" is the catalyst for the profound events that follow. As explored in the key word analysis, this was a warm, perhaps even embracing, greeting. It was not just a social formality but an act imbued with spiritual significance, as the presence of the Messiah in Mary's womb was carried into the presence of John the Baptist in Elisabeth's womb, eliciting an immediate and powerful prophetic response.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 1:40, though concise, is rich with literary devices that amplify its significance. **Foreshadowing** is prominent, as Mary's greeting immediately precedes and sets the stage for the profound spiritual recognition and prophetic utterance of Elisabeth and John the Baptist in [Luke 1:41-45](/luke/1-41-45 "Luke 1:41-45 - Elisabeth's Prophetic Utterance"). The humble act of a greeting **foreshadows** the divine revelation that is about to unfold. There is also subtle **Juxtaposition** between the two women: Mary, a young virgin, and Elisabeth, an elderly woman previously barren, both now miraculously pregnant by divine intervention. Their meeting highlights God's power to work through different circumstances and generations. The "house" itself functions as **Symbolism**, representing a sanctuary where divine promises converge and where the spiritual reality of God's plan becomes manifest through human interaction. The narrative employs **Narrative Economy**, conveying a significant turning point with simple, direct language, allowing the subsequent events to carry the full weight of the spiritual encounter.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 1:40 serves as a powerful testament to the importance of divine fellowship and the confirmation of God's work through human relationships. Mary, carrying the greatest news in history, does not retreat into isolation but actively seeks out a fellow believer, Elisabeth, who can understand and affirm her experience. This encounter underscores that God often uses community to provide comfort, strength, and validation for His purposes. It highlights the intergenerational nature of God's plan, where the old (Elisabeth, representing the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy) and the new (Mary, representing the dawn of the New Covenant) come together in joyful recognition of the Messiah. The simple act of greeting becomes the conduit for a profound spiritual outpouring, demonstrating that even seemingly ordinary human interactions can be divinely charged.

* [Psalm 133:1](/psalms/133-1 "Psalm 133:1 - The Blessing of Unity")
* [Romans 12:10](/romans/12-10 "Romans 12:10 - Brotherly Love and Honor")
* [1 Samuel 2:1-10](/1_samuel/2-1-10 "1 Samuel 2:1-10 - Hannah's Prayer of Thanksgiving")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 1:40, though a brief narrative detail, offers profound insights for contemporary believers. Mary's immediate action to visit Elisabeth, despite her own extraordinary circumstances, exemplifies humility, service, and the deep human need for spiritual connection and affirmation. In a world that often encourages isolation or self-reliance, Mary's example reminds us of the invaluable role of Christian community. When God does something miraculous or challenging in our lives, seeking out trusted, mature believers can provide essential encouragement, wisdom, and a shared space for processing divine revelation. This verse challenges us to consider: Who are our "Elisabeths" – those wise, godly individuals with whom we can share our spiritual journeys and receive confirmation? How might our simple acts of greeting, presence, and service open doors for God's Spirit to move powerfully, not just in our lives but in the lives of others? It teaches us that obedience to God's call often involves humble, relational steps that pave the way for greater divine manifestations.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways do you actively seek out spiritual community and fellowship, especially during times of significant personal or spiritual revelation?**
* **How might a simple act of "salutation" or greeting, imbued with genuine care and spiritual intentionality, open doors for God's work in your relationships?**
* **Whose "house" (or life) might God be calling you to "enter" with a spirit of humility and service, bringing encouragement or confirmation?**
* **How does Mary's example of seeking out Elisabeth challenge your own tendencies towards isolation or self-reliance in your spiritual walk?**

### FAQ
**Why did Mary go to Elisabeth's house immediately after the Annunciation?**

Answer: Mary's visit to Elisabeth, described in [Luke 1:39-40](/luke/1-39-40 "Luke 1:39-40 - Mary's Haste to Elisabeth"), was prompted by two primary reasons. First, the angel Gabriel explicitly gave Elisabeth's miraculous pregnancy as a sign to Mary, confirming that "nothing will be impossible with God" ([Luke 1:36-37](/luke/1-36-37 "Luke 1:36-37 - Elisabeth's Pregnancy as a Sign")). Mary's visit was likely an act of faith, seeking confirmation of this sign. Second, Mary, a young, unwed woman facing an unprecedented pregnancy, would naturally seek the comfort, counsel, and shared understanding of an older, trusted relative who was also experiencing a miraculous pregnancy. It was a journey for spiritual affirmation and mutual support.

**What is the significance of Mary's "salutation" to Elisabeth?**

Answer: The "salutation" (Greek: _aspázomai_) was far more than a casual greeting. It implies a warm, affectionate welcome, possibly involving an embrace, and carried deep spiritual significance. As soon as Mary's greeting reached Elisabeth's ears, John the Baptist "leaped in her womb" and Elisabeth was "filled with the Holy Spirit" ([Luke 1:41](/luke/1-41 "Luke 1:41 - John's Leap and Elisabeth's Prophecy")). This immediate, divinely orchestrated reaction indicates that Mary's greeting, imbued with the presence of the Messiah, was the catalyst for a profound prophetic encounter, confirming the identities of both Jesus and John.

**How does Luke 1:40 relate to the broader narrative of Luke's Gospel?**

Answer: Luke 1:40 is a crucial link in Luke's carefully constructed narrative of Jesus's birth and early life. It connects the two miraculous conceptions (John and Jesus), establishing their relationship and respective roles. It highlights Luke's emphasis on the Holy Spirit's work ([Luke 1:41](/luke/1-41 "Luke 1:41 - Elisabeth Filled with the Holy Spirit")), the theme of joy ([Luke 1:44](/luke/1-44 "Luke 1:44 - Elisabeth's Joy")), and the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel. This verse sets the stage for Mary's Magnificat ([Luke 1:46-55](/luke/1-46-55 "Luke 1:46-55 - Mary's Song of Praise")), a pivotal theological statement that frames the entire Gospel. It underscores Luke's pastoral concern for the marginalized and the role of women in God's redemptive plan.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 1:40, a seemingly simple account of a relative's visit, is profoundly Christ-centered in its implications. Mary's entry into Zacharias's house and her greeting to Elisabeth signify the arrival of the Messiah's presence into a new sphere, eliciting an immediate and undeniable spiritual response. This moment foreshadows Jesus's entire ministry: His physical presence brings the Spirit, joy, and prophetic recognition. Just as John the Baptist, still in the womb, "leaped for joy" at the sound of Mary's voice ([Luke 1:44](/luke/1-44 "Luke 1:44 - John's Joyful Leap")), so too would Jesus's later ministry bring spiritual awakening and joy to those who recognized Him as the Christ. His very presence, whether in the womb or walking the earth, is transformative, bringing light into darkness ([John 1:4-5](/john/1-4-5 "John 1:4-5 - Light and Darkness")), truth to the lost ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, Truth, and Life")), and ultimately, salvation to all who believe ([John 3:16](/john/3-16 "John 3:16 - God So Loved the World")). The humble greeting in Luke 1:40 is a microcosm of the divine encounter that Jesus, the Lamb of God ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), would bring to the entire world, ushering in the kingdom of God and fulfilling centuries of messianic prophecy.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.