The Greek name Elisábet, represented by G1665, is of Hebrew origin and identifies an Israelitess named Elisabeth. It appears 9 times across 8 unique verses in the Bible, exclusively within the Gospel of Luke. This name belongs to a key figure in the events preceding Jesus's birth: the wife of the priest Zacharias and the mother of John.
In the biblical narrative, Elisábet G1665 is introduced as the wife G1135 of Zacharias G2197, a priest from the course of Abia; she herself was "of the daughters of Aaron" Luke 1:5. Her story is initially marked by hardship, as she was barren G4723 and both she and her husband were "well stricken in years" Luke 1:7. An angel foretold that Elisábet would bear G1080 a son G5207 Luke 1:13. After she conceived G4815, she was saluted G782 by her cousin Mary, an event that caused the babe to leap in her womb and Elisábet to be "filled with the Holy Ghost" Luke 1:41.
Several related words clarify the context of Elisabeth's life and role:
- G2197 Zacharías (Zacharias): Her husband, a priest to whom an angel announced that his wife Elisabeth would bear a son Luke 1:13. Their story is presented together.
- G1135 gynḗ (a woman; specially, a wife): This term defines her primary relational identity in the narrative, as in the angel's promise, "thy wife Elisabeth" Luke 1:13.
- G4723 steíros ("sterile"): This word describes her long-standing condition, highlighting the miracle of her conception in old age. The narrative states plainly that "Elisabeth was barren" Luke 1:7.
- G4773 syngenḗs (a relative (by blood)): This establishes her familial bond with Mary, who is told of "thy cousin Elisabeth" having also conceived a son Luke 1:36.
The narrative of G1665 carries significant theological weight, marking a key moment in redemptive history.
- Divine Intervention: Elisabeth's story, moving from being barren G4723 to conceiving a son G5207 in her old age, serves as a powerful sign of God's direct intervention to fulfill his promises (Luke 1:7, Luke 1:36).
- The Forerunner's Mother: Her miraculous pregnancy and the birth of her son John were foretold by an angel, establishing the importance of his future role Luke 1:13. The fulfillment of this promise is confirmed when she "brought forth a son" Luke 1:57.
- Prophetic Recognition: The moment Elisábet is "filled with the Holy Ghost" upon hearing Mary's salutation G783 is one of the earliest recognitions of the unique status of Mary's child, as the babe in her own womb leaped in response Luke 1:41.
In summary, G1665 Elisábet is more than just a name; it represents a woman of priestly lineage whose life illustrates a divine promise fulfilled. Her journey from barrenness to motherhood is not only a personal blessing, celebrated by her cousins and neighbors Luke 1:58, but a crucial part of the biblical account. The story of Elisábet is foundational to the nativity narrative, showcasing God's miraculous intervention to prepare for the events that would follow.
TRV