5. In the days of Herod, King of Judah, there was a kohen named Zechariah from the priestly division of Abijah. Elizabeth, his wife, was from the daughters of Aaron.
6. Together they were righteous before Adonai, walking without fault in all His commandments and instructions.
7. But they were childless, because Elizabeth was barren and both of them were elderly.
8. Now it happened to be Zechariah’s time to serve as kohen before Adonai in the order of his division.
9. According to the custom of the priestly office, it became his lot to enter the Holy Place of Adonai to burn incense.
10. And the whole crowd of people was praying outside at the hour of incense burning.
11. An angel of Adonai appeared to him, standing at the right side of the altar of incense.
12. Zechariah was in turmoil when he saw the angel, and fear fell upon him.
13. But the angel said, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, because your prayer has been heard. Your wife, Elizabeth, will give birth to your son, and you will name him John.