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Book of Luke - Chapter 1 - Verse 53

1:53
He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away.

Meaning

In this verse, Mary is praising God for fulfilling his promise to the hungry and the oppressed. The "hungry" symbolizes those who are in need, whether it be for food, justice, or mercy, and God has provided them with good things, indicating that he has blessed them and shown them favor. On the other hand, the "rich" represent those who are self-sufficient and rely on their wealth and status, but despite their material possessions, they are sent away empty by God. This verse serves as a reminder that God's blessings are not limited to those who are wealthy or powerful, but are bestowed upon all those who are humble and in need, regardless of their social status. It also emphasizes the importance of humility, generosity, and reliance on God's provision rather than one's own resources. Overall, this verse highlights the divine principle of justice and fairness that God upholds in his dealings with humanity.

Theological Overview

This verse from the Gospel of Luke highlights the theme of social justice and the reversal of fortunes often found in the teachings of Jesus. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes God's concern for the marginalized and oppressed in society. The phrase "filled the hungry with good things" symbolizes God's provision for those who are in need, emphasizing the importance of caring for the less fortunate. In contrast, the phrase "the rich he hath sent empty away" speaks to the idea of God's judgment on those who are wealthy but fail to help those in need. The word "empty" here conveys a sense of being left with nothing, highlighting the fleeting nature of material wealth in comparison to spiritual fulfillment.

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