Simeon’s and Anna’s stories are told in Luke 2:21-38
The Setting
- Temple in Jerusalem
- This is a big deal, the heart of Jewish religious life.
- Mary and Joseph are there to present Jesus to God, following the laws in the book of Leviticus.
- Time Period
- This is shortly after Jesus’ birth, 40 days to be precise, per Jewish law regarding purification.
Simeon’s Story
- Who is Simeon?
- Described as a righteous and devout man.
- He’s been waiting for the “consolation of Israel,” a poetic way to talk about the coming of the Messiah.
- The Holy Spirit
- The Holy Spirit told Simeon he would not die until he had seen the Messiah.
- This guy’s basically been on Messiah-watch for who knows how long!
- Simeon Meets Jesus
- Guided by the Spirit, he goes to the Temple just as Mary and Joseph arrive.
- He takes Jesus in his arms and immediately knows that this is the one.
- Simeon’s Blessing and Prophecy
- He blesses God and speaks a poetic prophecy, sometimes known as the “Nunc Dimittis.”
- Indicates that Jesus is to be a light to the Gentiles and a glory to Israel.
- Also warns Mary that her son will cause division and that “a sword will pierce her own soul,” hinting at future suffering.
Anna’s Story
- Who is Anna?
- She’s an elderly widow who is a prophetess.
- Has dedicated her life to worship, spending all her time in the Temple fasting and praying.
- Anna’s Encounter
- She comes up right at the moment Simeon is finishing his blessing.
- Anna’s Proclamation
- She starts praising God and talking about Jesus to everyone looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.
- Unlike Simeon, her focus seems to be more on telling others immediately.
Significance of Their Stories
- Confirmation of Messiah
- Both Simeon and Anna serve to confirm Jesus’ identity as the awaited Messiah.
- Early Witnesses
- They’re among the first to testify to Jesus’ role, providing an early foundation for what would later become Christianity.
- Inclusive Salvation
- Simeon’s words specifically point out that Jesus will be significant not just for Israel but for the Gentiles as well.
- Foreshadowing
- Their words hint at both the joy and suffering that are to come in Jesus’ life, touching on the full scope of his earthly ministry.