Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Luke 1:46

"And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord," — Luke 1:46 (ASV)

The excitement of Elizabeth, who actually shouted her benediction (v.42), gives way to a restraint that is no less joyful. After an opening ascription of greatness to God, Mary acknowledges her dependence on God, her Savior. Indirectly, she acknowledged herself as a sinner needing salvation. Her words are comparable to those of Habakkuk, who came through his trials rejoicing in God his Savior (Habakkuk 3:18). Mary’s “humble state” probably refers to her lowly social position; the word does not usually convey the idea of “humiliated.” For the meaning of “servant,” see comments on v.38; for that of “blessed,” see v.45 and 6:20.