Luke 2:25

¶ And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name [was] Simeon; and the same man [was] just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.

And {G2532}, behold {G2400}, there was {G2258} a man {G444} in {G1722} Jerusalem {G2419}, whose {G3739} name {G3686} was Simeon {G4826}; and {G2532} the same {G3778} man {G444} was just {G1342} and {G2532} devout {G2126}, waiting {G4327} for the consolation {G3874} of Israel {G2474}: and {G2532} the Holy {G40} Ghost {G4151} was {G2258} upon {G1909} him {G846}.

There was in Yerushalayim a man named Shim`on. This man was a tzaddik, he was devout, he waited eagerly for God to comfort Isra'el, and the Ruach HaKodesh was upon him.

Now there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him.

And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and this man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Spirit was upon him.

Commentary

Luke 2:25 introduces Simeon, a righteous and devout man living in Jerusalem during the time of Jesus' infancy. He stands out as a figure of profound spiritual anticipation, embodying the fervent hope of many in Israel for the arrival of their long-awaited Messiah.

Context

This verse is part of the narrative surrounding Jesus' presentation at the Temple, as required by Mosaic Law (Luke 2:22). Simeon represents a segment of faithful Jews who were not merely going through religious motions but were actively looking for God's promised intervention in their nation's history. His presence highlights the divine orchestration of events, ensuring that the Messiah's arrival was recognized and celebrated by those prepared to receive Him.

Key Themes

  • Righteousness and Devotion: Simeon is described as "just and devout." This signifies a life lived in accordance with God's laws and a deep reverence for Him. His character made him receptive to divine revelation.
  • Patient Expectation: He was "waiting for the consolation of Israel." This phrase, the consolation of Israel, refers to the coming of the Messiah who would bring comfort, deliverance, and restoration to God's people from their suffering and oppression. It reflects the deep yearning for the fulfillment of ancient prophecies.
  • Guidance by the Holy Spirit: Crucially, "the Holy Ghost was upon him." This indicates a special anointing and guidance from God's Spirit, enabling Simeon to discern spiritual truths and recognize the infant Jesus as the promised Savior. The Holy Spirit's active role is also seen in how He came upon Mary and empowered various individuals throughout biblical history.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "just" is dikaios (δίκαιος), meaning righteous, upright, or conforming to divine standards. "Devout" is eulabēs (εὐλαβής), conveying a sense of piety, reverence, and careful observance of religious duties. The phrase "consolation of Israel" is from paraklēsis tou Israēl (παράκλησις τοῦ Ἰσραήλ), where paraklēsis can mean comfort, exhortation, or encouragement, pointing to the Messiah as the ultimate source of hope and relief for God's people.

Reflection and Application

Simeon's story encourages believers today to cultivate a spirit of patient waiting and spiritual readiness. Just as Simeon was prepared by his righteous living and the presence of the Holy Spirit to recognize Christ, we too are called to live devout lives, attentive to God's leading. His example teaches us the value of spiritual discernment and the blessing of seeing God's promises fulfilled, whether in grand historical events or in our personal lives. It reminds us that God reveals Himself to those who earnestly seek Him and are guided by His Spirit.

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Cross-References

  • Isaiah 25:9

    ¶ And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this [is] our God; we have waited for him, and he will save us: this [is] the LORD; we have waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his salvation.

  • Luke 1:6

    And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.

  • Luke 2:38

    And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.

  • Titus 2:11

    ¶ For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,

  • Titus 2:14

    Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.

  • Mark 15:43

    Joseph of Arimathaea, an honourable counsellor, which also waited for the kingdom of God, came, and went in boldly unto Pilate, and craved the body of Jesus.

  • Luke 1:41

    And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost: