[1:68] 1 sn The traditional name of this psalm, the “Benedictus,” comes from the Latin wording of the start of the hymn (“Blessed be…”).
[1:68] 2 sn The verb come to help can refer to a visit, but can also connote concern or assistance (L&N 85.11).
[1:68] 3 tn Or “has delivered”; Grk “has accomplished redemption.”
[1:68] sn Has redeemed is a reference to redemption, but it anticipates the total release into salvation that the full work of Messiah will bring for Israel. This involves both spiritual and material benefits eventually.
[1:69] 4 tn Grk “and,” but specifying the reason for the praise in the psalm.
[1:69] 5 sn The phrase raised up means for God to bring someone significant onto the scene of history.
[1:69] 6 sn The horn of salvation is a figure that refers to the power of Messiah and his ability to protect, as the horn refers to what an animal uses to attack and defend (Ps 75:4-5, 10; 148:14; 2 Sam 22:3). Thus the meaning of the figure is “a powerful savior.”
[1:69] 7 sn In the house of his servant David is a reference to Messiah’s Davidic descent. Zechariah is more interested in Jesus than his own son John at this point.
