Hail (2)
TextsWhat is the meaning of Hail (2) in the Bible?
The greeting 'Hail' in Luke 1:28 translates the Greek word 'chaire', which carries the imperative meaning 'rejoice' or 'be glad', serving as the angel Gabriel's salutation to Mary.
TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing 'Hail' as an active command to rejoice rather than a static formal greeting reveals the celebratory tone of the Incarnation narrative, helping readers grasp the profound joy associated with the announcement of Jesus' birth in its original cultural context.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Manuscript & Literary Context: Notice how Hail (2) functions as an authoritative historical witness connecting earlier prophetic promises with scripture's broader fulfillment.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Hail (2) in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Hail (2) clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Luke 1:28
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Hail (2)." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/hail-2/