Elizabeth is introduced in Luke 1 as the wife of Zechariah, a priest of the division of Abijah. She was of the daughters of Aaron and is described as “righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless” (Luke 1:6). Yet she and Zechariah had no child because she was barren and well advanced in years.
The angel Gabriel appeared to Zechariah while he ministered in the temple, announcing that Elizabeth would bear a son to be named John. He would be great in the sight of the Lord, filled with the Holy Spirit from the womb, and go before the Lord in the spirit and power of Elijah to prepare a people for Him (Luke 1:13–17). Zechariah doubted the angel’s words and was struck mute until the prophecy was fulfilled.
Elizabeth conceived, and for five months she kept herself hidden, saying, “Thus the Lord has dealt with me… to take away my reproach among people” (Luke 1:25). When Mary, the mother of Jesus, visited Elizabeth, the baby in her womb leaped for joy, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. She exclaimed, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!” (Luke 1:42). She recognized the presence of her Lord in Mary’s womb and affirmed Mary’s faith (Luke 1:45).
When her son was born, Elizabeth insisted his name be called John, contrary to tradition. Zechariah confirmed it, and his speech was restored (Luke 1:60–64). The people marveled, and the hand of the Lord was with the child.
Elizabeth’s life demonstrates faithful obedience, trust in God’s timing, and spiritual discernment. Her joy and prophetic praise at Mary’s visitation reveal her deep understanding of God’s redemptive plan. She was part of the final preparations for the coming of the Messiah, and her son, John the Baptist, would become His forerunner.
