Luk 1:76-79 | RWP | e4.org | Yea and thou ( κα συ δε ). Direct address to the child with forecast of his life (cf. ). Prophet ( προφητης ). The word here directly applied to the child. Jesus will later call John a prophet and more than a prophet. The Lord ( Κυριου ). Jehovah as in .

‏ Luke 1:76-79

Yea and thou ( κα συ δε ). Direct address to the child with forecast of his life (cf. 1:13-17).

Prophet ( προφητης ). The word here directly applied to the child. Jesus will later call John a prophet and more than a prophet.

The Lord ( Κυριου ). Jehovah as in 1:16.

Knowledge of salvation ( γνωσιν σωτηριας ). "This is the aim and end of the work of the Forerunner" (Plummer).

Tender mercy ( σπλαγχνα ελεους ). Bowels of mercy literally (1Pe 3:8; Jas 3:11). Revised margin has it, hearts of mercy.

The dayspring from on high ( ανατολη εξ υψους ). Literally, rising from on high, like the rising sun or stars (Isa 60:19). The word is used also of a sprouting plant or branch (Jer 23:5; Zec 6:12), but that does not suit here.

Shall visit ( επεσκεψετα ), correct text, cf. 1:68.

To shine upon ( επιφανα ). First aorist active infinitive of επιφαινω (liquid verb). An old verb to give light, to shine upon, like the sun or stars. See also Ac 27:20; Tit 2:11; 3:4.

The shadow of death ( σκια θανατου ). See Ps 107:10, where darkness and shadow of death are combined as here. Cf. also Isa 9:1. See on Mt 4:16. To guide ( του κατευθυνα ). Genitive of the articular infinitive of purpose. The light will enable them in the dark to see how to walk in a straight path that leads to "the way of peace." We are still on that road, but so many stumble for lack of light, men and nations.