Luke 1:24

“And after those days, etc.] The days of his ministration in the temple, quickly after his return home; the Ethiopic version reads, “after two days”: his wife Elisabeth conceived; according to the angels prediction, and notwithstanding her barrenness, and the unbelief of her husband; and hid herself five months. The Arabic and Persic versions render it, “hid her size”; but there could be no occasion to take any methods to hide this, since, if she said nothing of it herself, and there could be no suspicion of it in one of her years, it could not be much discerned in her by such a time; but she hid herself, or lived retired, that she might be fully satisfied that she was with child, before she…”

“hid five months--till the event was put beyond doubt and became apparent.”

“Hid herself - Did not go forth into public, and concealed her condition. This might have been done that she might spend her time more entirely in giving praise to God for his mercies, and that she might have the fullest proof of the accomplishment of the promise before she appeared in public or spoke of the mercies of God. return to 'Top of Page'”

“Hid herself - She retired from company, that she might have the more leisure to rejoice and bless God for his wonderful mercy. Luke 1:25”

“1:24 went into seclusion for five months: The reason for this seclusion is unknown and does not seem related to any Old Testament custom or command. Perhaps it was a spiritual retreat to honor God for answered prayer.”