# The angel

This refers to the angel that came to Zechariah in [22:01](22/01).

# You will name him John.

This is a command. The angel is telling Zechariah exactly what he must name John.

# fill him with the Holy Spirit

This could mean ‘give him wisdom and power through the Holy Spirit.’

# My wife and I are too old to have children!

This sentence emphasizes that Zechariah and Elizabeth were far too old to have children by natural means. That would require God to work a miracle. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations]])

# How can I know you are telling me the truth?

Here, **know** means to learn by experience, suggesting Zechariah was asking for a sign as proof. Alternate translation: “What can you do to prove to me that this will happen?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])