This verse refers to the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth in the Gospel of Luke. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:
Zechariah and Elizabeth's Situation: Zechariah and Elizabeth were an elderly couple who had been unable to have children. An angel appeared to Zechariah in the temple and told him that Elizabeth would conceive and bear a son, who they were to name John. Zechariah doubted the angel's word, and as a result, he was struck mute until the child was born.
The Birth and Circumcision: After Elizabeth gave birth, on the eighth day, the family gathered for the child's circumcision, a Jewish ritual. The relatives expected the child to be named after his father, Zechariah.
"They made signs to his father...": Since Zechariah was mute, he couldn't speak his choice of name. The verse indicates that the family used gestures or sign language to communicate with Zechariah and inquire about what he wanted to name the child. This highlights the challenge of communicating with someone who has suddenly lost their ability to speak.
"...what he would have him called.": This part simply asks what Zechariah wants the child to be named.
Significance: The verse shows the family's respect for Zechariah's role as the father in naming the child, even though he was unable to speak. It also highlights the divine nature of the name choice. Zechariah, after requesting a writing tablet, wrote "His name is John," confirming the angel's instructions. His obedience to the angel's command resulted in the restoration of his speech.
This verse refers to the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth in the Gospel of Luke. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:
Zechariah and Elizabeth's Situation: Zechariah and Elizabeth were an elderly couple who had been unable to have children. An angel appeared to Zechariah in the temple and told him that Elizabeth would conceive and bear a son, who they were to name John. Zechariah doubted the angel's word, and as a result, he was struck mute until the child was born.
The Birth and Circumcision: After Elizabeth gave birth, on the eighth day, the family gathered for the child's circumcision, a Jewish ritual. The relatives expected the child to be named after his father, Zechariah.
"They made signs to his father...": Since Zechariah was mute, he couldn't speak his choice of name. The verse indicates that the family used gestures or sign language to communicate with Zechariah and inquire about what he wanted to name the child. This highlights the challenge of communicating with someone who has suddenly lost their ability to speak.
"...what he would have him called.": This part simply asks what Zechariah wants the child to be named.
Significance: The verse shows the family's respect for Zechariah's role as the father in naming the child, even though he was unable to speak. It also highlights the divine nature of the name choice. Zechariah, after requesting a writing tablet, wrote "His name is John," confirming the angel's instructions. His obedience to the angel's command resulted in the restoration of his speech.
