Luke 1:52

Mighty. Gr. dunastai, “princes,” or “potentates,” the source of our word “dynasty.” Dunastai is from dunamai, “to be able,” “to be powerful,” whence our word “dynamite.” The reference here is particularly to oppressors. Perhaps Mary had in mind the cruel tyrant Herod, who murdered not only thousands of the Jews but even his closest relatives (see pp. 39-42). Contemporary Jewish literature also reveals the fact that the common people often suffered intensely from economic oppression.

Their seats. Literally, “their thrones.”

Them of low degree. Gr. tapeinoi, “lowly [ones],” or “humble [ones]”; the Greek adjective form of the noun translated “low estate” (see on v. 48). In due time God metes out justice to those who have been oppressed.