What does Luke 1:47 mean?

Mary, recently told she would bear the very Son of God (Luke 1:26–33), is celebrating with her relative, Elizabeth (Luke 1:39–42). Her initial response to an angelic message was humility and obedience (Luke 1:38). The extended praise she offers in this passage has become known as "The Magnificat." Most of this speech quotes or alludes to passages in the Old Testament, including Hannah's celebration when she learned she would bear the prophet Samuel (1 Samuel 2:1–10).

A key point here is that Mary refers to God as her "Savior." When Gabriel first appeared, he described Mary—very specifically, in Greek grammar—as a recipient of God's grace (Luke 1:28). False belief and poor translation have suggested Mary was "full of grace" and that she passes along grace to others. For her part, Mary clearly understood she was a sinner in need of salvation (Psalm 35:9). Her song of praise declares what God does, and how He saves, without suggesting that she is an active part in that process. She is honored and happy to obey God's plan and follow His will.