Luke 1:59

“And it came to pass that on the eighth day, etc.] The precise time fixed in the normal restitution of the ordinance of circumcision, (<011712>Genesis 17:12) though this was not always attended to, but circumcision was sometimes deferred to another time; yet keeping the exact time was judged most commendable and praiseworthy; (See Gill on “<500305>Philippians 3:5”) they came to circumcise the child; that is, the neighbours and cousins of Elisabeth, who were at the time of her delivery; eight days after they came again to be at the circumcision of the child: who was the operator is not known; nor was there any particular person appointed for this service; but any one might do it, whether…”

“BIRTH AND CIRCUMCISION OF JOHN--SONG OF ZACHARIAS AND PROGRESS OF THE CHILD. (Luke 1:57-80) eighth day--The law (Gen 17:12) was observed, even though the eighth day after birth should be a sabbath (Joh 7:23; and see Phi 3:5). called him--literally, "were calling"--that is, (as we should say) "were for calling." The naming of children at baptism has its origin in the Jewish custom at circumcision (Gen 21:3-4); and the names of Abram and Sarai were changed at its first performance (Gen 17:5, Gen 17:15).”

“On the eighth day - This was the day on which it was required to circumcise children, Genesis 21:4. And they called him Zacharias - The name of the child was commonly given at the time of the circumcision, Genesis 21:3-4. The name “commonly” given to the eldest son was that of the father. return to 'Top of Page'”

“1:59 God commanded every Israelite male to be circumcised when eight days old (Gen 17:9-14; Lev 12:3). Circumcision signified the child’s incorporation into the covenant community of Israel. • They wanted to name him Zechariah: It was common to name a child after a relative. The family and friends were surprised because John was not the name of any of his relatives.”

“Luk 2:21; Gen 17:12, Gen 21:3, Gen 21:4; Lev 12:3; Act 7:8; Phi 3:5 Luke 1:60”