Thou shalt be silent (εση σιωπων). Volitive future periphrastic.

Not able to speak (μη δυναμενος λαλησα). …

Because you do not believe, this was both a sign and a judgment—a sign that he had come from God and that it would be fulfilled; and a jud…

Behold, thou shalt be dumb.—The question was answered, the demand for a sign granted, but the demand had implied a want o…

And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall I know this? for I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years. And, the angel answering…

St. John Chrysostom: Considering his own age and the barrenness of his wife, Zacharias doubted, as it is said: And Zachari…

Zechariah’s question (v.18) seems innocent, but v.20 reveals that it was asked in doubt. In contrast Mary’s question—“How can this be?” (v.34)—aris…

And, behold, you shall be dumb. It was suitable that this kind of punishment should be inflicted on Zacharias, so that, being dumb, he mig…

And behold, you shall be dumb, Or "silent; and not able to speak", if he would. Silence is sometimes voluntary; but this …

The father and mother of John the Baptist were sinners, as all are, and were justified and saved in the same way as others; but they were distingui…