### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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