Chapter

Luke 1:79

ESV to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace."
NIV to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace."
NASB To shine on those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, To guide our feet into the way of peace.'
CSB to shine on those who live in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.
NLT to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, and to guide us to the path of peace.'
KJV To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.
NKJV To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, To guide our feet into the way of peace.”

What does Luke 1:79 mean?

In Hebrew culture, "light" is the embodiment of truth and goodness (Psalm 27:1; 43:3). This is connected in symbolism to seeing the right path (Psalm 119:105; Proverbs 4:18). Old Testament prophecy anticipated the arrival of a Savior (Isaiah 9:6–7) whose ministry included this concept of being a "light" (Isaiah 9:2). The fulfillment of that prediction comes in the form of Jesus Christ (John 1:1–5; Matthew 4:16; Luke 1:78). The truth and wisdom His "light" reveals provide a means for people to be forgiven of sin (Luke 1:77; John 3:16–17) and freed from eternal death (John 8:51).

The same prophecies noted that Messiah would be associated with peace (Isaiah 9:6) and a freedom from fear (Zephaniah 3:14–15). Others mentioned light (Malachi 4:2), while noting that there would be a herald (Malachi 4:6) who would come before the Savior (Isaiah 40:3; Malachi 3:1). This herald is John the Baptist (Luke 1:13–17; 3:2–3). He will make it clear (John 1:19–23) that He is not the Christ, but a voice meant to point people towards God (Matthew 3:1–5). John's father, Zechariah (Luke 1:67) is celebrating this fulfillment of prophecy in an extended series of Old Testament quotes and echoes (Luke 1:68–78).
Expand
Expand
Expand
What is the Gospel?
Download the app: