Simeon

Simeon lives as a righteous and devout man in Jerusalem, waiting for the consolation of Israel. The Holy Spirit is upon him, guiding his life and giving him prophetic insight into God's redemptive plans.

The Holy Spirit reveals to Simeon that he will not die before he has seen the Lord's Messiah. This divine promise sustains his hope through the years as he waits for God's salvation to appear.

Moved by the Holy Spirit, Simeon goes to the temple courts on the very day that Mary and Joseph bring the infant Jesus for the purification rites required by the Law of Moses. Divine timing orchestrates this momentous encounter.

Simeon takes the infant Jesus in his arms and immediately recognizes Him as the promised Messiah. In this simple act, an elderly man holds the salvation of the world—the One Israel had awaited for centuries.

Simeon praises God with the words now known as the Nunc Dimittis: 'Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.'

Joseph and Mary marvel at what Simeon says about Jesus. Simeon then blesses them, affirming God's favor upon this humble family chosen to raise the Messiah.

Simeon speaks directly to Mary with a sobering prophecy: 'This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.' This foretells the opposition Jesus will face and Mary's grief at the cross.