Luke 1:66Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

As at the silence of Zacharias the people marvelled, so likewise when he spoke. Hence it is said, And fear came upon all; that from these two circumstances all might believe there was something great in the child that was born. But all these things were ordained, to the end that he who was to bear witness of Christ might also be esteemed trustworthy. Hence it follows, And all they that heard them laid them up in their heart, saying, What manner of child, &c.

Those who listened took it to heart, cherishing it as a memory. They wondered aloud, "What will this child become?" Their reflections were filled with curiosity and contemplation. One might ponder why Zechariah was liberated from his inability to speak not at the moment of the child's birth, but when the child was designated by name. The answer lies in the proclamation of the Angel, who declared, “And behold, thou shalt be silent, and shalt not be able to speak until the day that it shall come true” (Luke 1:20). In using the term “this,” the Angel referred to both the birth and the naming of the child, ensuring that the miracle of agreement regarding the name would unfold. The hand of the Lord was upon him, embodying the strength and grace of God.

For God worked miracles in John which he did not himself, but the right hand of God in him.

For forerunning signs prepare the way for the forerunner of the truth, and the future prophet is recommended by auspices sent before him; hence it follows, For the hand of the Lord was with him.

The final statements clearly allude to John's later years, while the gratitude expressed toward Zechariah in the song likely occurred earlier. This sentiment symbolizes the extraordinary might of God in various forms. From birth, certain children intended for significant roles exhibit unique signs; for instance, some may fast on specific days or refrain from consuming their mother’s milk. Such occurrences are unusual, which leads many to question their authenticity; however, a deeper examination of nature supports their possibility. In the world around us, many realities remain unknown, yet they are genuine. These signs can be natural as well as spiritual, demonstrated through the precocious emergence of talents, focused contemplation on a particular topic, or unique experiences. The Gospel narratives provide insight into the earthly existence of Jesus Christ, including the Nativity of John the Baptist and his early life.

While the secret held by Mary was revealed in Nazareth, the silence that had afflicted Zacharias was lifted. As the angel had announced, Elizabeth gave birth to a son. A large gathering of relatives and friends was present to witness this remarkable event; they were astonished by what had transpired and noted the timing in relation to the vision that had been granted to Zacharias, recognizing a connection between the two occurrences, yet they remained uninformed about the particulars. Zacharias continued to be mute, and Elizabeth was determined not to disclose anything without her husband's consent. As the days went by, on the eighth day, the child was to undergo circumcision and receive a name.

It remains uncertain whether Zechariah delivered his prophetic words immediately following John's circumcision or at a later time, leading us to question if this marks a pause in the narrative of that day’s events or signals the start of a new segment. The remarkable occurrences surrounding the birth and circumcision of the Forerunner instilled a sense of fear among those who heard of them in the Judean highlands, for the divine action was unmistakably evident. The awareness of God's presence can naturally evoke trepidation, especially in relation to sinful humanity.

Throughout the territory of Judah, people exchanged thoughts on the matter, filled with confusion, and inquired of one another, What is the significance of this child?

The account left a profound mark on the hearts of everyone who listened, causing them to contemplate the child's future. Meanwhile, Zacharias, his father, inspired by the Holy Spirit, proclaimed, saying... The events that unfolded, along with the joyous hymn of the virtuous Zechariah, became etched in the souls of all those present. They departed from the family gathering overwhelmed with wonder and astonishment at everything that had transpired.

"They placed it deep within their hearts," reflecting, contemplating, and seeking understanding. - "What this child will become": the remarkable events surrounding the child's arrival hinted at an exceptional ministry and extraordinary actions, yet the specifics of those actions remained unknown, save for a select few who had been given revelation and could grasp it, albeit not in its entirety. - "The hand of the Lord was upon him": this is a general observation from the Evangelist concerning the infant, beginning from the day of his birth. This phrase serves as a metaphor, signifying that divine assistance, protection, and favor were evidently present in the child's life from the moment he entered the world.

All who listened to it treasured it in their hearts, asking, What will this child become?