NT FigureNew Testament

Zechariah (priest)

Luke

When

c. 6–5 BC· In the text

Tied to events dated from records outside the Bible, usually within a few years. How the dates are worked out

Name meaning

"the LORD remembers" · Hebrew

About

Elderly Jewish priest of the division of Abijah, husband of Elizabeth. While burning incense in the temple, the angel Gabriel appeared and told him his barren wife would bear a son to be named John. Zechariah doubted and was struck mute until the baby was born. When relatives wanted to name the baby after him, he wrote 'His name is John' and immediately his speech returned. He then prophesied (the Benedictus) about his son's role as forerunner of the Messiah.

Relationships

SpouseElizabethWife

SonJohn the BaptistSon, forerunner of Jesus

Key Scripture AppearancesKJV

Luke 1:5

There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judæa, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth.Luke 1:5, KJV

Luke 1:13

But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John.Luke 1:13, KJV

Luke 1:20

And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season.Luke 1:20, KJV

Luke 1:63

And he asked for a writing table, and wrote, saying, His name is John. And they marvelled all.Luke 1:63, KJV

Luke 1:67

And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied, saying,Luke 1:67, KJV

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