Luke 1:64

And his mouth was opened immediately, and his tongue [loosed], and he spake, and praised God.

And {G1161} his {G846} mouth {G4750} was opened {G455} immediately {G3916}, and {G2532} his {G846} tongue {G1100} loosed, and {G2532} he spake {G2980}, and praised {G2127} God {G2316}.

At that moment, his power of speech returned, and his first words were a b'rakhah to God.

Immediately Zechariah’s mouth was opened and his tongue was released, and he began to speak, praising God.

And his mouth was opened immediately, and his tongue loosed, and he spake, blessing God.

Commentary

Luke 1:64 (KJV) describes a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative surrounding the birth of John the Baptist, specifically the restoration of Zacharias's speech.

Context of Luke 1:64

This verse immediately follows the dramatic scene where Zacharias, the father of John the Baptist, confirms the name "John" for his newborn son. Earlier, the angel Gabriel had appeared to Zacharias in the temple, announcing that his elderly, barren wife Elisabeth would bear a son. Because Zacharias expressed doubt concerning this divine promise, he was struck mute as a sign and consequence of his unbelief until the day the child was born and named. The community expected the child to be named after his father, but Elisabeth insisted on "John," and Zacharias confirmed this by writing on a tablet. It was at this moment of obedience and affirmation of God's word that his speech was miraculously restored.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Intervention and Miracle: The immediate opening of Zacharias's mouth and the loosening of his tongue was a direct, supernatural act of God, demonstrating His power to fulfill His promises and reverse physical incapacities.
  • Consequences and Restoration: Zacharias's muteness was a temporary judgment for his initial disbelief. His restoration signifies God's faithfulness to His word and His readiness to restore when there is obedience and affirmation of His will.
  • Immediate Praise and Worship: The very first thing Zacharias did upon regaining his voice was to speak and praise God. This highlights the appropriate response to divine blessings and miraculous intervention, echoing themes of gratefulness and adoration. His subsequent words, known as the Benedictus, offer profound prophetic praise (see Luke 1:68-79).
  • Fulfillment of God's Word: The angel Gabriel's prophecy concerning Zacharias's muteness and its end was precisely fulfilled, underscoring the reliability and truthfulness of God's declarations.

Linguistic Insight

The KJV phrase "his tongue [loosed]" comes from the Greek word eluthē (ἐλύθη), which means "was unbound" or "was released." This term vividly portrays the supernatural removal of a physical bond or impediment, emphasizing that it was not a natural recovery but a direct, divine intervention that freed his tongue to speak.

Practical Application

Luke 1:64 offers several timeless lessons for believers today:

  • God's Faithfulness: Even when we falter in faith, God remains true to His word and purposes. His plans will unfold in His perfect timing.
  • The Power of Obedience: Zacharias's obedience in naming his son "John" was a turning point, leading to his restoration. This reminds us that aligning with God's will can unlock blessings and freedom.
  • A Heart of Praise: When God acts powerfully in our lives, our natural response should be one of immediate and profound praise. This verse encourages us to cultivate a spirit of gratitude and adoration for God's works.
  • Overcoming Doubt: While Zacharias experienced consequences for his doubt, God's grace ultimately prevailed, leading to restoration and a powerful testimony. It reminds us that even when we struggle with unbelief, God can still use us for His glory.
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Cross-References

  • Luke 1:20 (8 votes)

    And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season.

  • Jeremiah 1:9 (6 votes)

    Then the LORD put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And the LORD said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth.

  • Ezekiel 33:22 (5 votes)

    Now the hand of the LORD was upon me in the evening, afore he that was escaped came; and had opened my mouth, until he came to me in the morning; and my mouth was opened, and I was no more dumb.

  • Exodus 4:15 (5 votes)

    And thou shalt speak unto him, and put words in his mouth: and I will be with thy mouth, and with his mouth, and will teach you what ye shall do.

  • Exodus 4:16 (5 votes)

    And he shall be thy spokesman unto the people: and he shall be, [even] he shall be to thee instead of a mouth, and thou shalt be to him instead of God.

  • Psalms 51:15 (4 votes)

    O Lord, open thou my lips; and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise.

  • Daniel 4:34 (4 votes)

    ¶ And at the end of the days I Nebuchadnezzar lifted up mine eyes unto heaven, and mine understanding returned unto me, and I blessed the most High, and I praised and honoured him that liveth for ever, whose dominion [is] an everlasting dominion, and his kingdom [is] from generation to generation: