Simeon
Israelite / Jew Jewish, of Jerusalem · Life of Christ · New Testament
- Name means
- 'hearing'
- Role
- Devout man who blessed the infant Jesus in the temple
- When
- c. 6-4 BC
What they did
A just and devout man waiting for the consolation of Israel, to whom the Holy Ghost revealed that he would not die before seeing the Lord's Christ; he took Jesus in his arms and blessed God.
Why it matters: the purpose of their role
He declared that Jesus is God's salvation, 'a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel', announcing early that the Saviour was for all nations.
For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. Luke 2:30-32 (KJV)
Bible references
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 it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. Luke 2:25-26 (KJV)
Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. Luke 2:28-32 (KJV)
And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against; (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed. Luke 2:34-35 (KJV)
Family
Scripture records little about this person's family.