Topical Encyclopedia Elisabeth, a figure of notable humility in the New Testament, is introduced in the Gospel of Luke as the wife of Zechariah and the mother of John the Baptist. Her account is primarily found in Luke 1, where her character and actions provide a profound example of humility and faithfulness.Elisabeth was a descendant of Aaron, and both she and her husband Zechariah were described as "righteous in the sight of God, walking blamelessly in all the commandments and decrees of the Lord" (Luke 1:6). Despite their devoutness, they faced the social stigma of childlessness, as Elisabeth was barren and both were advanced in years. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, barrenness was often seen as a reproach or a sign of divine disfavor, yet Elisabeth bore this burden with grace and humility. The narrative takes a miraculous turn when the angel Gabriel appears to Zechariah, announcing that Elisabeth would bear a son who would be great in the sight of the Lord and filled with the Holy Spirit from the womb (Luke 1:13-15). When Elisabeth conceives, she responds with gratitude and humility, acknowledging God's intervention: "The Lord has done this for me. In these days He has shown me favor and taken away my disgrace among the people" (Luke 1:25). Elisabeth's humility is further exemplified in her interaction with Mary, the mother of Jesus. When Mary visits her, Elisabeth is filled with the Holy Spirit and recognizes the significance of Mary's pregnancy. She humbly acknowledges Mary's blessedness and the honor of being visited by the mother of her Lord: "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! And why am I so honored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?" (Luke 1:42-43). Her response reflects a deep humility, as she places herself in a position of servitude and reverence before the unfolding divine plan. Elisabeth's humility is also evident in her support of her son, John the Baptist, whose role was to prepare the way for the Messiah. She nurtured him in the ways of the Lord, understanding that his life was dedicated to a purpose greater than her own. Her acceptance of God's will, even when it meant stepping aside for the greater mission of her son, underscores her humble submission to God's plan. In summary, Elisabeth's life is a testament to humility, characterized by her acceptance of God's will, her gratitude for His blessings, and her recognition of her role in the divine narrative. Her account serves as an enduring example of how humility can manifest in faithfulness, gratitude, and the acknowledgment of God's sovereignty. Nave's Topical Index Luke 1:43And what is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? Nave's Topical Index Library C. The "Magnificat. " Ch. 1:39-56 Annunciation to Zacharias of the Birth of John the Baptist. The Annunciation of Jesus the Messiah, and the Birth of his ... The Key-Note of a Choice Sonnet The Blessed virgin Mary May have Lived Without Sin. None of the ... The Magnificat The Fourth Homily. On the Holy Theophany, or on Christ's Baptism. Anti-Pelagian Writings The Gospel According to St. Luke His Marriage with Martha Savory. Resources What does the Bible say about humility? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about how to humble yourself? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about ego? | GotQuestions.org Humility: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Humility: A Characteristic of Saints Humility: Afflictions Intended to Produce Humility: Christ an Example of Humility: General Scriptures Concerning Humility: Leads to Riches, Honor, and Life Humility: Necessary to the Service of God Humility: Saints should be Clothed With Humility: Saints should Beware of False Humility: Saints should Put On Humility: Saints should Walk With Humility: Temporal Judgments Averted By Humility: The Who Have are Greatest in Christ's Kingdom Humility: The Who Have: Delivered by God Humility: The Who Have: Enjoy the Presence of God Humility: The Who Have: Exalted by God Humility: The Who Have: Heard by God Humility: The Who Have: Lifted up by God Humility: The Who Have: Receive More Grace Humility: The Who Have: Regarded by God Humility: The Who Have: Upheld by Honor The Humility of Christ: Declared by Himself The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Associating With the Despised The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Becoming a Servant The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Birth The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Death The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Entry Into Jerusalem The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Exposing Himself to Reproach and Contempt The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Obedience The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Partaking of Our Infirmities The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Poverty The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Refusing Honors The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Station in Life The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Subjection to his Parents The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Submitting to Ordinances The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Submitting to Sufferings The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Taking Our Nature The Humility of Christ: Exhibited in His: Washing his Disciples' Feet The Humility of Christ: His Exaltation, the Result of The Humility of Christ: On Account of, he Was Despised The Humility of Christ: Saints should Imitate Related Terms |