And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.
LUKE 1:31KJVWhat does Luke 1:31 mean?
Luke 1:31 records the angel Gabriel telling Mary that she will become pregnant, give birth to a son, and name him Jesus. This verse announces the coming birth of Jesus in clear, direct terms, highlighting both the miraculous conception and the specific name he is to be given.
In this scene, the angel Gabriel is speaking directly to Mary, a young woman in Nazareth. Gabriel’s message is both startling and specific: Mary, though not yet married, will conceive a child. The instruction to name the child "Jesus" signals his importance and connects to promises about a coming savior in Jewish tradition.
The Greek behind Luke 1:31
- Ἰησοῦς (Iēsous): This is the Greek form of the name "Jesus." It reflects the Hebrew name יֵשׁוּעַ (Yeshua), meaning "The Lord saves" or "The Lord is salvation." The angel’s instruction to use this name points to the child’s future role.
- ἰδοὺ (idou): Translated as "behold," this word is used to draw attention and signal something important or surprising. Gabriel uses it here to emphasize the significance of the message to Mary.
- συλλήμψῃ (syllēmpsē): This word means "you will conceive." It highlights the beginning of the miraculous event, focusing on Mary’s role in bringing Jesus into the world.
Why Luke 1:31 matters
- Luke 1:31 clarifies that the birth of Jesus is not a random event but the result of a direct message and plan from God, delivered by an angel.
- The verse emphasizes Mary’s role and obedience, as well as the importance of the name "Jesus," which is tied to his mission.
- This announcement sets the stage for the rest of Luke’s account, connecting to earlier promises about a coming savior and showing that Jesus’ arrival fulfills long-held hopes in Israel.