Luke 1:63

A writing table. Gr. pinakidion, “a small tablet”; hence “a writing tablet.” The word “table” as here used is an Old English word for “tablet.” If such a writing tablet was not a common piece of equipment in Judean homes, it is probable that Zacharias’ condition had made its use necessary in his home during the period of his affliction (see on v. 62).

Wrote, saying. A typically Hebraistic idiom commonly used to introduce a direct quotation (see 2 Kings 10:6).

John. See on vs. 13, 60. Zacharias wrote, literally, “John, is his name.” The matter was not open to further discussion.

They marvelled. Probably not so much because of the choice of a name as that Zacharias concurred with Elisabeth in bestowing this particular name on their son (see on vs. 22, 62). Some commentators, supported by at least one ancient manuscript (Bezae), connect this statement with what follows, namely, the loosing of Zacharias’ tongue (v. 64), rather than with what precedes it. However this may be, it is certain that Zacharias began to speak “immediately” after having written the name “John” (v. 64). That very instant his speech was restored, and no doubt his hearing also (see on v. 62). Codex Bezae and the Old Latin manuscripts have the clauses of vs. 63, 64 in a different order: “Immediately his tongue was loosed, and all marvelled, and his mouth was opened.”