Table of Contents
Mary, the mother of Jesus, and Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist, are two prominent figures in the New Testament. Their relationship is significant not only because of their familial ties but also because of the roles their sons play in the Christian narrative.
Biblical Account of Mary and Elizabeth’s Relationship
The primary source of information about the relationship between Mary and Elizabeth comes from the Gospel of Luke. Luke’s account provides the most detailed narrative about their interactions and familial connection.
Luke 1:5-7 (NKJV):
“There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both well advanced in years.”
This passage introduces Elizabeth, highlighting her lineage as a descendant of Aaron, the brother of Moses, which indicates her priestly heritage.
Luke 1:26-27 (NKJV):
“Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary.”
This passage introduces Mary, emphasizing her betrothal to Joseph and her Davidic lineage.
Luke 1:36 (NKJV):
“Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren.”
Here, the angel Gabriel tells Mary that Elizabeth is her relative. The Greek word used here is “suggenēs,” which broadly means “relative” or “kinswoman.” This term indicates a familial relationship but does not specify the exact nature of their kinship, leaving room for interpretation.
The Nature of Their Relationship
Given the broad term “relative” used in Luke 1:36, there are several possible interpretations of the specific nature of Mary and Elizabeth’s relationship. However, historical and cultural context, as well as biblical genealogies, can provide some insights.
Possible Cousins
The most commonly held belief is that Mary and Elizabeth were cousins, a view supported by many biblical scholars and traditions. This interpretation aligns with the Greek term “suggenēs,” which can encompass a range of familial relationships, including cousins.
Luke 1:39-40 (NKJV):
“Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth.”
Mary’s visit to Elizabeth shortly after the Annunciation further emphasizes their close relationship. The journey from Nazareth to the hill country of Judea, where Elizabeth lived, would have been significant, underscoring the importance of their bond.
Possible Aunt and Niece
Another plausible interpretation is that Elizabeth could have been an aunt to Mary. Given Elizabeth’s description as being “well advanced in years” (Luke 1:7) and Mary being a young virgin, it is possible that Elizabeth was a generation older than Mary, making her an aunt.
Cultural and Genealogical Context
Priestly and Davidic Lineages
Elizabeth is described as a descendant of Aaron, while Mary is betrothed to Joseph, who is of the house of David. This indicates that Mary and Elizabeth come from distinguished lineages, with Elizabeth’s priestly heritage and Mary’s connection to the royal line of David. This convergence of priestly and royal lines is significant in the context of Jewish expectations for the Messiah.
Luke 1:5 (NKJV):
“His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth.”
Luke 1:27 (NKJV):
“To a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David.”
Levitical Marriages
In ancient Jewish culture, it was not uncommon for members of the Levitical (priestly) tribe to marry within their own tribe or other tribes of Israel. This practice maintained the purity and continuity of the priestly lineage. The marriage between Elizabeth, of Aaron’s lineage, and Zacharias, a priest, fits this pattern.
Mary’s connection to Elizabeth could also suggest that Mary’s family had ties to the Levitical tribe, even though she was from the tribe of Judah through her connection to the house of David. This inter-tribal marriage practice could explain the familial relationship between Mary and Elizabeth.
Significance of Mary and Elizabeth’s Relationship
Prophetic and Messianic Fulfillment
The relationship between Mary and Elizabeth is pivotal in the unfolding of God’s redemptive plan. Both women play crucial roles in the prophetic and messianic narratives.
Elizabeth’s Prophetic Role
Elizabeth’s pregnancy with John the Baptist fulfills the prophecy of a forerunner to the Messiah. John’s birth and ministry prepare the way for Jesus, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies about the one who would prepare the way for the Lord (Isaiah 40:3; Malachi 3:1).
Luke 1:41-45 (NKJV):
“And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, ‘Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.'”
Elizabeth’s proclamation and the reaction of her unborn child highlight her prophetic role and recognition of Mary’s child as the Lord.
Mary’s Messianic Role
Mary’s role as the mother of Jesus, the promised Messiah, is central to the New Testament narrative. Her visit to Elizabeth and the subsequent Magnificat (Mary’s song of praise) underscore her unique position in God’s plan.
Luke 1:46-55 (NKJV):
“And Mary said: ‘My soul magnifies the Lord, And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name. And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation. He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has put down the mighty from their thrones, And exalted the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, And the rich He has sent away empty. He has helped His servant Israel, In remembrance of His mercy, As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and to his seed forever.'”
Mary’s song reflects her understanding of her role in the fulfillment of God’s promises to Israel.
Mutual Support and Encouragement
The interaction between Mary and Elizabeth also highlights the importance of mutual support and encouragement among believers. Both women find comfort and affirmation in each other’s presence, strengthening their faith and resolve.
Luke 1:56 (NKJV):
“And Mary remained with her about three months, and returned to her house.”
Mary’s extended stay with Elizabeth suggests a deep bond and mutual support during a transformative period in their lives.
Conclusion
Mary and Elizabeth’s relationship, as described in the Gospel of Luke, is an example of God’s intricate plan and the fulfillment of His promises. The term “relative” used to describe their connection allows for various interpretations, but the most commonly accepted view is that they were cousins, possibly with ties through inter-tribal marriages between the Levitical and Davidic lines.
Their relationship is significant not only for its familial bond but also for the pivotal roles they play in the prophetic and messianic narratives. Elizabeth’s recognition of Mary’s child as the Lord and their mutual support exemplify the faith and obedience that characterize their lives. Through their story, we see the convergence of priestly and royal lineages, the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, and the unfolding of God’s redemptive plan for humanity.
The biblical account of Mary and Elizabeth reminds us of the importance of faith, obedience, and mutual support in fulfilling God’s purposes. Their lives inspire us to trust in God’s promises and to support one another in our spiritual journeys.
Check out the Bible Answers page for more information on a variety of topics.
In His service,
BibleAsk Team