And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth.

LUKE 1:40KJV
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Luke 1:40 (KJV)

What does Luke 1:40 mean?

Luke 1:40 describes Mary entering the house of Zacharias and greeting Elisabeth. This verse shows the moment Mary arrives to visit her relative Elisabeth after hearing from the angel Gabriel that Elisabeth is also expecting a child.

Mary’s visit takes place shortly after she learns she will give birth to Jesus. The greeting (“saluted Elisabeth”) is more than a casual hello; it marks the beginning of a significant meeting between two women experiencing miraculous pregnancies. The verse sets the scene for the important exchange that follows, where Elisabeth will recognize Mary’s unique role.

The Greek behind Luke 1:40

  • The word “saluted” comes from the Greek ἀσπάζομαι (aspazomai), which often means to greet warmly or to offer a respectful welcome. In this context, it suggests a meaningful, heartfelt greeting, not just a simple hello.
  • The Greek word for “entered” (εἰσέρχομαι, eiserchomai) carries the sense of coming into a place with purpose. Mary’s entry is intentional, showing she is seeking out Elisabeth specifically.

Why Luke 1:40 matters

  • This verse highlights the close relationship between Mary and Elisabeth, setting up the following verses where Elisabeth’s reaction and blessing are central.
  • Luke 1:40 connects two miraculous stories—Mary’s and Elisabeth’s pregnancies—showing how God’s work is unfolding in both their lives.
  • The verse emphasizes the importance of personal connection and support during significant spiritual moments, as Mary seeks out Elisabeth in her time of wonder and uncertainty.

Where else these words appear

“Elisabeth” Greek G1665 · used in 8 verses

  • Luke 1:5 There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judaea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth.
  • Luke 1:13 But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John.
  • Luke 1:36 And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren.

“Zacharias” Greek G2197 · used in 11 verses

  • Matthew 23:35 That upon you may come all the righteous blood shed upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel unto the blood of Zacharias son of Barachias, whom ye slew between the temple and the altar.
  • Luke 1:13 But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John.
  • Luke 1:59 And it came to pass, that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child; and they called him Zacharias, after the name of his father.

“saluted” Greek G782 · used in 49 verses

  • Matthew 5:47 And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?
  • Romans 16:9 Salute Urbane, our helper in Christ, and Stachys my beloved.
  • Philippians 4:22 All the saints salute you, chiefly they that are of Caesar's household.

“house” Greek G3624 · used in 106 verses

  • Matthew 9:6 But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins,(then saith he to the sick of the palsy,) Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine house.
  • Luke 10:38 Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house.
  • Acts 11:13 And he shewed us how he had seen an angel in his house, which stood and said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter;