Luk 1:46-48 | RWP | e4.org | Doth magnify ( μεγαλυνε ). Latin, magnificat . Harnack argues that this is also the song of Elisabeth because a few Latin MSS. have it so, but Mary is correct. She draws her material from the O.T. and sings in the noblest strain.

‏ Luke 1:46-48

Doth magnify ( μεγαλυνε ). Latin, magnificat. Harnack argues that this is also the song of Elisabeth because a few Latin MSS. have it so, but Mary is correct. She draws her material from the O.T. and sings in the noblest strain.

Hath rejoiced ( ηγαλλιασεν ). This is aorist active indicative. Greek tenses do not correspond to those in English. The verb αγαλλιαω is a Hellenistic word from the old Greek αγαλλω. It means to exult. See the substantive αγαλλιασις in Lu 1:14, 44. Mary is not excited like Elisabeth, but breathes a spirit of composed rapture.

My spirit ( το πνευμα μου ). One need not press unduly the difference between "soul" ( ψυχη ) in verse 46 and "spirit" here. Bruce calls them synonyms in parallel clauses. Vincent argues that the soul is the principle of individuality while the spirit is the point of contact between God and man. It is doubtful, however, if the trichotomous theory of man (body, soul, and spirit) is to be insisted on. It is certain that we have an inner spiritual nature for which various words are used in Mr 12:30. Even the distinction between intellect, emotions, and will is challenged by some psychologists.

God my Saviour ( τω θεω τω σοτηρ μου ). Article with each substantive. God is called Saviour in the O.T. (De 32:15, Ps 24:5; 95:1).

The low estate ( την ταπεινωσιν ). The bride of a carpenter and yet to be the mother of the Messiah. Literal sense here as in 1:52.

Shall call me blessed ( μακαριουσιν με ). So-called Attic future of an old verb, to felicitate. Elisabeth had already given her a beatitude ( μακαρια, 1:45). Another occurs in 11:27. But this is a very different thing from the worship of Mary (Mariolatry) by Roman Catholics. See my The Mother of Jesus: Her Problems and Her Glory.