What is Annunciation and what happened at Annunciation?

The Annunciation is one of the most important events recorded in the Bible, because it marks the moment when God revealed His plan for the birth of Jesus Christ. The word “Annunciation” comes from the Latin term meaning “announcement.” It refers to the visit of the angel Gabriel to Mary, described in Luke 1:26–38. In this encounter, God announces to Mary that she has been chosen to become the mother of the long-awaited Messiah.

The event takes place in the town of Nazareth, an ordinary village with no political or religious significance. Yet it is here that heaven and earth meet in a quiet and intimate moment. Gabriel greets Mary with the words, “Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with you” (Luke 1:28). This greeting shows that God has already prepared Mary for her role. She is filled with grace, meaning she shares a unique closeness with God even before the message is delivered.

Gabriel then tells Mary that she will conceive and bear a son, and she must name Him Jesus (Luke 1:31). The angel explains that this child will be great, will be called the Son of the Most High, and will receive the throne of David. His kingdom will have no end (Luke 1:32–33). This message connects directly to the prophecies of Isaiah, Micah, and God’s covenant with David. The Annunciation shows that the promises of Scripture are now being fulfilled.

Mary responds honestly and thoughtfully. She asks, “How will this be, since I have no relations with a man?” (Luke 1:34). Gabriel explains that her child will not come through ordinary human conception, but through the power of the Holy Spirit: “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you” (Luke 1:35). This moment reveals the miracle of the Virgin Birth, foretold in Isaiah 7:14: “The virgin shall conceive and bear a son.”

After hearing the message, Mary gives her free and faithful response: “Let it be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38). With these words, often called her Fiat, the Incarnation takes place. The eternal Son of God begins His human life within her womb. God becomes man through Mary’s yes.

If we reflect carefully, the Annunciation is not simply a moment in history. It is the turning point in salvation. Humanity had waited since Genesis 3:15 for the promise of a Savior. At the Annunciation, that promise became reality. God entered the world not with force or spectacle, but through the humble acceptance of a woman who trusted His will.

The Annunciation reminds us that God works through ordinary places, quiet moments, and willing hearts. Through Mary’s yes, the world received Jesus Christ, Emmanuel, God with us.

For more questions explained in plain language, visit our Christmas Questions page.

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