Luke 1:67-69

New English Translation

Footnotes

1. Luke 1:67 tn Here καί (kai) has been translated as “then” to indicate the implied sequence of events within the narrative.
2. Luke 1:67 tn Grk “and he prophesied, saying.” The participle λέγων (legōn) is redundant and has not been translated.sn Prophesied. The reference to prophecy reflects that Zechariah is enabled by the Spirit to speak God’s will. He does so in this case through a praise psalm, which calls for praise and then gives the reason why God should be praised.
3. Luke 1:68 sn The traditional name of this psalm, the “Benedictus,” comes from the Latin wording of the start of the hymn (“Blessed be…”).
4. Luke 1:68 sn The verb come to help can refer to a visit, but can also connote concern or assistance (L&N 85.11).
5. Luke 1:68 tn Or “has delivered”; Grk “has accomplished redemption.” sn Has redeemed is a reference to redemption, but it anticipates the total release into salvation that the full work of Messiah will bring for Israel. This involves both spiritual and material benefits eventually.
6. Luke 1:69 tn Grk “and,” but specifying the reason for the praise in the psalm.
7. Luke 1:69 sn The phrase raised up means for God to bring someone significant onto the scene of history.
8. Luke 1:69 sn The horn of salvation is a figure that refers to the power of Messiah and his ability to protect, as the horn refers to what an animal uses to attack and defend (Pss 75:4-5, 10; 148:14; 2 Sam 22:3). Thus the meaning of the figure is “a powerful savior.”
9. Luke 1:69 sn In the house of his servant David is a reference to Messiah’s Davidic descent. Zechariah is more interested in Jesus than his own son John at this point.