Zechariah

Overview

Zechariah was a priest of the division of Abia, married to Elisabeth, also of priestly descent, described together as righteous before God, walking blamelessly in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord, yet childless and well advanced in years. While serving his priestly course and burning incense in the temple, he was visited by the angel Gabriel, who announced that Elisabeth would bear a son to be named John, who would go before the Lord in the spirit and power of Elijah. Zechariah's doubt, asking for a sign since he and his wife were old, resulted in Gabriel striking him mute until the promise was fulfilled. Nine months later, after Elisabeth gave birth and Zechariah confirmed in writing that the child's name would be John, exactly as commanded, his speech was restored, and he immediately burst into the prophetic song known as the Benedictus, blessing God for redeeming his people and for the role his son would play as prophet of the Highest, preparing the way of the Lord.