Zechariah facts for kids

Zechariah was an important figure in the Bible, specifically in the Gospel of Luke. He was a priest and the father of John the Baptist, who later became a very famous prophet. Zechariah's story tells us about his special encounter with an angel and how he temporarily lost his voice.

Who Was Zechariah?

Zechariah lived a long time ago in ancient Judea. He was a priest, which meant he served God in the Temple in Jerusalem. His wife was named Elizabeth, and she was also from a priestly family. They were both considered good and fair people who followed God's rules. However, they were sad because they had no children, and they were both quite old.

A Special Message from an Angel

One day, Zechariah was performing his duties in the Temple. He was chosen to go into the holiest part of the Temple to burn incense. This was a very special task. While he was there, an angel named Gabriel appeared to him. Gabriel told Zechariah that his prayers had been heard and that he and Elizabeth would have a son. The angel said their son would be named John and would be very important. He would prepare people for the coming of the Messiah.

Why Zechariah Couldn't Speak

Zechariah was surprised by the angel's message. He found it hard to believe because he and Elizabeth were so old. He asked the angel for a sign to prove that what he said was true. Because Zechariah doubted the angel's words, Gabriel told him that he would not be able to speak until the day his son was born. This was a sign that the angel's message was real. When Zechariah came out of the Temple, the people outside realized he couldn't speak, and they knew he had seen a vision.

The Birth of John

Just as the angel had promised, Elizabeth became pregnant. When the baby was born, everyone was excited. On the eighth day, it was time for the baby to be named. People thought he should be named Zechariah, after his father. But Elizabeth said, "No, he will be called John."

Zechariah Regains His Voice

The family members were confused because no one in their family had that name. They asked Zechariah, using hand signs, what he wanted to name the baby. Zechariah asked for a writing tablet. He wrote down, "His name is John." As soon as he wrote this, Zechariah's voice came back! He immediately began to praise God. Everyone who heard about these events was amazed and wondered what kind of person John would become.

Zechariah's Importance

Zechariah's story is important because it shows how God works in unexpected ways. It also sets the stage for the arrival of John the Baptist, who played a key role in preparing people for Jesus Christ. Zechariah's experience with the angel and his temporary muteness are memorable parts of his story in the Bible.