Luke 1:41

KJV

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:

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} it came to pass {G1096}, that, when {G5613} Elisabeth {G1665} heard {G191} the salutation {G783} of Mary {G3137}, the babe {G1025} leaped {G4640} in {G1722} her {G846} womb {G2836}; and {G2532} Elisabeth {G1665} was filled {G4130} with the Holy {G40} Ghost {G4151}:

Complete Jewish Bible

When Elisheva heard Miryam's greeting, the baby in her womb stirred. Elisheva was filled with the Ruach HaKodesh

Berean Standard Bible

When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.

American Standard Version

And it came to pass, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 1:41 captures a moment of profound divine recognition and Spirit-empowered revelation during Mary's visit to her cousin Elisabeth. As Mary's greeting reached Elisabeth's ears, the unborn John the Baptist, in Elisabeth's womb, dramatically "leaped," simultaneously, Elisabeth was immediately filled with the Holy Spirit, enabling her to prophetically affirm Mary's miraculous pregnancy and the identity of the child she carried. This pivotal scene underscores the immediate, transformative power of Christ's presence, even in utero, and the Holy Spirit's role in confirming God's unfolding redemptive plan.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the opening chapters of Luke's Gospel, which meticulously details the miraculous births of John the Baptist and Jesus Christ. It follows directly from the [angel Gabriel's annunciation to Mary](/luke/1-26-38 "Gabriel's Annunciation to Mary"), where Mary is told she will conceive the Son of God by the Holy Spirit and is given Elisabeth's miraculous pregnancy as a sign. Mary's subsequent journey to the Judean hill country to visit Elisabeth, her relative, is an act of humble obedience and faith. The immediate reaction described in Luke 1:41—John's leap and Elisabeth's Spirit-filling—serves as the first external, prophetic validation of Gabriel's words, confirming the divine nature of both pregnancies and establishing John's role as the forerunner to the Messiah, even before his birth, as prophesied in [Luke 1:15](/luke/1-15 "John the Baptist filled with the Holy Spirit from birth").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israelite society, barrenness was often considered a source of shame or divine disfavor, making Elisabeth's late-life pregnancy a significant sign of God's favor and intervention. The custom of "salutation" (greeting) was more than a mere formality; it often involved a blessing or a declaration, carrying spiritual weight, especially between women of faith. The setting in the Judean hill country suggests a humble, perhaps secluded, environment, away from the bustling centers, allowing for a more intimate and divinely orchestrated encounter. The concept of being "filled with the Holy Ghost" was understood within the Old Testament tradition of prophetic empowerment, where individuals were temporarily endowed with divine inspiration to speak God's word or perform a specific task, as seen with prophets and judges. This was not yet the permanent indwelling of the Spirit that would characterize the New Covenant era after Pentecost, but a specific, powerful anointing for revelation.
* **Key Themes:** Luke 1:41 contributes significantly to several major themes within Luke's Gospel and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Recognition and Prophetic Fulfillment**, as the unborn John, already designated as the Messiah's forerunner, instinctively recognizes his Lord, fulfilling the prophecy of [Luke 1:15](/luke/1-15 "John the Baptist filled with the Holy Spirit from birth") that he would be filled with the Holy Spirit from birth. Secondly, the immediate **Filling of the Holy Spirit** upon Elisabeth underscores the Spirit's active role in God's redemptive plan, empowering individuals for prophetic utterance and divine insight, confirming the truth of God's promises. This infilling is a tangible sign of God's presence and approval. Thirdly, the "leaping" conveys profound **Joy in God's Presence**, a theme that resonates throughout Luke's Gospel, particularly in the context of salvation and the arrival of the Messiah. This joy is not merely emotional but a spiritual response to the nearness of God's redemptive work, echoing the joy anticipated by the prophets. Finally, this encounter serves as a powerful **Confirmation of God's Promises**, providing immediate, undeniable validation of the angelic announcements made to Zacharias concerning John and to Mary concerning Jesus, solidifying the certainty of God's unfolding plan of salvation.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **babe (Greek, _bréphos'_):** This term refers to an infant, specifically one unborn, as in this context. Its use here is critical, emphasizing that John, while still in the womb, is a distinct, responsive individual. The Holy Spirit's influence on John is so profound that even in this early stage of development, he reacts to the presence of his Lord, highlighting the sacredness and personhood of life from conception.
* **leaped (Greek, _skirtáō'_):** This verb signifies to jump or skip, often conveying sympathetic or exultant movement. In this context, it describes a powerful, involuntary, and joyful response from the unborn John. It is not a mere fetal movement but a Spirit-prompted, prophetic recognition, signifying John's role as the forerunner who would "leap for joy" at the coming of the Messiah.
* **was filled (Greek, _plḗthō'_):** This word means to "fill" or "furnish," often implying a sudden, powerful, and complete saturation. When used in relation to the Holy Spirit, it denotes a special, often temporary, empowerment for a specific divine purpose, such as prophecy or miraculous action. Here, Elisabeth is not merely sensing something but is divinely empowered to speak God's truth, indicating a direct, immediate anointing from the Holy Spirit.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary,"**: This opening clause sets the scene, emphasizing the immediate cause-and-effect relationship between Mary's greeting and the subsequent events. The "salutation" (Greek, _aspasmós'_) was likely a customary greeting, but in this context, it carries profound spiritual weight, acting as the catalyst for the divine revelation. The very sound of Mary's voice, carrying the presence of the Messiah, triggered the Spirit's work.
* **"the babe leaped in her womb;"**: This is the first miraculous response. John the Baptist, still in utero, reacts with a forceful, joyful "leap." This is not an ordinary fetal movement but a divinely inspired, prophetic acknowledgment of Jesus's presence. It foreshadows John's future role as the one who would prepare the way for the Lord, recognizing Him even before birth. This "leap" is a physical manifestation of spiritual recognition, fulfilling the prophecy that John would be filled with the Holy Spirit from his mother's womb.
* **"and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost:"**: Simultaneously with John's leap, Elisabeth herself is powerfully and immediately filled with the Holy Spirit. This infilling provides her with divine insight and enables her to utter a prophetic blessing and affirmation of Mary's unique role as the mother of the Lord. This spiritual empowerment is a clear sign that God is actively at work, confirming His promises through supernatural means and preparing the way for the Messiah.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 1:41 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound theological message. **Symbolism** is prominent, with John's "leaping" functioning as a symbolic act of recognition and worship, even from the womb, foreshadowing his future role as the one who would herald the Messiah's arrival. This physical reaction symbolizes a spiritual truth: the forerunner acknowledges his Lord. The immediate filling of Elisabeth with the Holy Spirit serves as **Divine Confirmation**, validating the truth of Gabriel's announcements to both Zacharias and Mary. It's a supernatural sign that God is indeed bringing His promises to fruition. Furthermore, the scene presents a powerful **Contrast** between the ordinary human interaction of a greeting and the extraordinary divine intervention that follows, highlighting the miraculous nature of these pregnancies and the imminent arrival of the Savior. The entire narrative functions as a form of **Foreshadowing**, preparing the reader for the greater revelation of Christ's identity and mission that will unfold throughout the Gospel.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 1:41 beautifully illustrates the profound truth that God's redemptive plan is meticulously orchestrated and divinely confirmed, often through surprising and humble means. It underscores the active presence of the Holy Spirit in preparing the way for the Messiah, not only in the lives of key individuals but even within the womb. The immediate, Spirit-filled reactions of John and Elisabeth highlight the inherent joy and prophetic insight that accompany the presence of God's Anointed One. This event serves as a powerful affirmation of the sacredness of life from its earliest stages and the Spirit's ability to reveal divine truth to those who are open and receptive. It speaks to the reality that God's work is often recognized by those with spiritual discernment, even before it is fully understood by the world.

* [Psalm 139:13-16](/psalms/139-13-16 "God's intimate knowledge and formation in the womb")
* [Jeremiah 1:5](/jeremiah/1-5 "God's foreknowledge and consecration of Jeremiah before birth")
* [Galatians 1:15](/galatians/1-15 "Paul's calling from his mother's womb")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 1:41 offers profound insights for our spiritual journey today. The immediate, Spirit-filled recognition of Jesus by John, even in the womb, reminds us that God's presence can be perceived and responded to in ways that transcend human understanding. It challenges us to cultivate a sensitivity to the Holy Spirit's promptings in our own lives, recognizing God's work in unexpected places and people. Elisabeth's filling with the Holy Spirit and subsequent prophetic utterance encourages us to be open vessels for God's truth, allowing the Spirit to empower us to speak words of affirmation, encouragement, and divine insight into the lives of others. This encounter also highlights the immense joy that accompanies fellowship with other believers who share in God's promises, reminding us of the power found in mutual encouragement and shared faith. Just as John "leaped for joy," we too are called to respond with exuberant delight to the presence of Christ in our lives and in the world, embracing the sacredness of all life and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does John's "leap" in the womb challenge or deepen your understanding of the sacredness of life from conception?**
* **In what ways do you believe the Holy Spirit enables believers today to "recognize" God's work, even in unexpected circumstances?**
* **How can we cultivate a greater sensitivity to the Holy Spirit's promptings in our daily lives, similar to Elisabeth's experience?**
* **What role does joy play in your response to God's presence and promises, and how can you express that joy more fully?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of John the Baptist leaping in Elisabeth's womb?**

Answer: The leaping of John the Baptist in Elisabeth's womb is highly significant. It is interpreted as a Spirit-prompted, prophetic act of recognition and joy. John, who was prophesied to be filled with the Holy Spirit from birth ([Luke 1:15](/luke/1-15 "John the Baptist filled with the Holy Spirit from birth")), instinctively acknowledges the presence of Jesus, his Lord, even before either of them were born. This event serves as the first recorded instance of John fulfilling his role as the forerunner, preparing the way for the Messiah, and it underscores the divine nature of both pregnancies. It is a physical manifestation of spiritual discernment and prophetic worship.

**How is Elisabeth being "filled with the Holy Ghost" different from the Holy Spirit's indwelling in believers today?**

Answer: Elisabeth's experience of being "filled with the Holy Ghost" in [Luke 1:41](/luke/1-41 "Elisabeth filled with the Holy Spirit") is distinct from the permanent indwelling of the Holy Spirit that is characteristic of believers after the day of Pentecost. In the Old Testament and during the time leading up to Pentecost, being "filled" often referred to a special, temporary empowerment by the Spirit for a specific task, such as prophecy, leadership, or artistic skill. Elisabeth was empowered to speak a prophetic blessing and revelation concerning Mary and Jesus ([Luke 1:42-45](/luke/1-42-45 "Elisabeth's prophetic blessing to Mary")). After Pentecost, the Holy Spirit comes to indwell all believers permanently upon conversion, providing ongoing guidance, comfort, and transformation, as described in passages like [Acts 2:38](/acts/2-38 "Peter's call to repentance and receiving the Holy Spirit") and [Romans 8:9](/romans/8-9 "The Spirit of God dwelling in believers").

**Does this verse have implications for the sanctity of life in the womb?**

Answer: Yes, many theologians and believers see profound implications in [Luke 1:41](/luke/1-41 "Luke 1:41 - The Visitation") for the sanctity of life in the womb. The fact that John the Baptist, while still an unborn "babe" (Greek, _bréphos'_), is capable of a Spirit-filled, joyful, and prophetic response to the presence of Jesus suggests that life in the womb is not merely biological matter but a distinct, recognized, and divinely significant human being. This passage, along with others like [Psalm 139:13-16](/psalms/139-13-16 "God's intimate knowledge and formation in the womb") and [Jeremiah 1:5](/jeremiah/1-5 "God's foreknowledge and consecration of Jeremiah before birth"), contributes to the biblical understanding that human life is known, formed, and valued by God from its earliest stages, even before birth.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 1:41, though focusing on John and Elisabeth, is profoundly Christ-centered, serving as an early, powerful affirmation of Jesus's divine identity and His imminent redemptive work. John's prophetic leap in the womb is the very first recorded response to the physical presence of the Messiah, even before His birth, foreshadowing John's lifelong mission to prepare the way for the Lord ([Isaiah 40:3](/isaiah/40-3 "Voice crying in the wilderness")). This pre-natal recognition by the Spirit-filled forerunner highlights that Jesus is not merely a great prophet or teacher, but the very Son of God, whose presence evokes immediate, supernatural revelation. Elisabeth's Spirit-empowered blessing confirms Mary's unique role as the "mother of my Lord," unequivocally declaring Jesus's divine sovereignty. This event sets the stage for the entire Gospel narrative, demonstrating that the Holy Spirit's primary work is to testify to Christ ([John 15:26](/john/15-26 "The Spirit testifying about Jesus")), revealing Him to those who are receptive. The joy expressed by John and Elisabeth is a foretaste of the ultimate joy that the coming of Christ would bring to all who believe, fulfilling the ancient prophecies of a Savior who would bring light and life to a world in darkness ([Luke 2:10-11](/luke/2-10-11 "Good news of great joy for all people")). Thus, Luke 1:41 is not just a touching family reunion, but a divinely orchestrated moment that validates the incarnation and signals the dawn of God's salvation in Jesus Christ.

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.

Cross-References

Luke 1:67

¶ And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied, saying,

Luke 1:15

For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother's womb.

Luke 1:44

For, lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy.

Acts 4:8

Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel,

Acts 2:4

And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

Acts 7:55

But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,

Genesis 25:22

And the children struggled together within her; and she said, If [it be] so, why [am] I thus? And she went to enquire of the LORD.