What does Luke 1:26 mean?

The prior passage explained how Elizabeth came to learn she would bear a son: the man later known as John the Baptist (Luke 1:24–25). For five months, she has remained in seclusion. This was likely because of public interest over her husband's angelic vision (Luke 1:11–13). This passage begins after that: six months into Elizabeth's pregnancy.

The same angel who spoke to Zechariah in the temple (Luke 1:19) will now visit another woman. Unlike Elizabeth, Mary is a virgin, unmarried but betrothed (Luke 1:27). This arrangement was as binding as marriage but did not include living together or consummation. This announcement will be even more incredible than what was told to Elizabeth and Zechariah. Mary will conceive, but through the Holy Spirit, rather than intercourse. The Child she bears will be the Son of God (Luke 1:31–32).

Mary is from the Galilee region near the Sea of Galilee, north of Jerusalem. Nazareth was a small town of less than 2,000 residents. The obscurity of this place will come up later, as the gospels record skeptics' criticism of Jesus Christ (John 1:46; 7:41).