Luke 2:21-38
NL319
21 When the eighthI dayII came,III it was time to circumciseIV the child,
I “eighth” = okto. 10x in NT. This is eight.
II “day” = hemera. Perhaps from hemai (to sit). This is day, time, or daybreak.
III“came” = pleitho. This is to fill to the highest level possible – to accomplish, supply, or complete.
IV “circumcise” = peritemno. 18x in NT. From peri (about, concerning, all around, encompassing) + same as tomos or tomoteros (sharp or keener); {from temno (to cut as with a single slice)}. This is to circumcise – literally to cut around.
and he was calledV Jesus,VI the name givenVII
V “called” = kaleo + ho + onoma + autos. Literally, “his name was called.” Kaleo is related to keleuo (to command, order, direct); from kelomai (to urge on). This is to call by name, invite, to name, bid, summon, call aloud. Onoma may be from ginosko (know, recognize, learn from firsthand experience). This is a name, authority, cause, character, fame, reputation. The name was thought to include something of the essence of the person so it was not thought to be separate from the person.
VI “Jesus” = Iesous. From Hebrew Yehoshua (Joshua, the Lord is salvation); {from YHVH (proper name of the God of Israel; the self-existent and eternal one); {from havah (to become) or from hayah (to come to pass, become, be)} + yasha (to deliver, defend, help, preserve, rescue; properly, to be open, wide or free, which implies being safe. So, in a causative sense, this is to free someone)}. This is Jesus or Joshua in Greek – the Lord saves or the Lord is salvation.
VII “name given” = kaleo. Same as “called” in v21. See note V above.
by the angelVIII before he was conceivedIX in the womb.X
VIII “angel” = aggelos. Probably from ago (to lead, bring, carry, guide) + agele (flock, herd, drove); {also from ago (see above)}. This is angel or messenger. Properly, it is one sent with news or to perform a specific task. This messenger can be human or an angel from heaven. More commonly, it is used for angels in the New Testament.
IX “conceived” = sullambano. 16x in NT. From sun (with, together with) + lambano (active acceptance/taking of what is available or what has been offered; emphasizes the choice and action of the individual). This is to take, take part in, conceive, help. It can also be clasp or seize as to arrest or take hold of someone.
X “womb” = koilia. From koilos (hollow). This is belly or organs in the abdomen. So, it could be stomach, womb, or heart. Figuratively, this refers to one’s inner self.
22 When the timeXI came for their purificationXII according to the lawXIII of Moses,XIV
XI “time” = hemera. Same as “day” in v21. See note II above.
XII “purification” = katharismos. 7x in NT. From katharizo (to cleanse, make clean, purify, purge, or declare to be clean; includes cleansing in a literal, ritual, or spiritual sense); from katharos (clean, clear, pure, unstained; clean in a literal, ritual, or spiritual sense; so, also guiltless, innocent or upright; something that is pure because it has been separated from the negative substance or aspect; spiritually clean because of God’s act of purifying). This is cleansing or purification. It can be used in a literal, ritual, or moral sense.
XIII “law” = nomos. From nemo (to parcel out). Literally, this is that which is assigned. It can be usage, custom, or law. This word can be used for human or divine law. It can be used specifically for the law of Moses or as a name for the Torah (the first five books of the Bible). Sometimes it is used for scripture as a whole, used of the Gospel, or of any theology. It is also used for the “tradition of the elders,” which would be the oral Torah – the tradition of the laws plus their interpretations as they were passed down over time. We must carefully consider which meaning of “law” is meant when we interpret passages the word is found in.
XIV “Moses” = Mouses. From Hebrew Mosheh (Moses); from mashah (to pull out in a literal or figurative sense, to draw out) OR from Egyptian mes or mesu (child, son i.e. child of…). This is Moses – the one drawn out from the water, which is to say, rescued. If derived from the Egyptian, his name would share a root with Rameses and Thutmose.
they broughtXV him up to JerusalemXVI to presentXVII him to the LordXVIII
XV “brought” = anago. Related to “angel” in v21. From ana (up, again, back, among, anew) + ago (see note VIII above). This is to lead up, offer, set sail, bring out, depart, loose.
XVI “Jerusalem” = Hiersoluma. From Hebrew Yerushalaim (probably foundation of peace); {from yarah (to throw, shoot, be stunned; to flow as water so figuratively to instruct or teach) + shalam (to make amends, to be complete or sound)}. This is Jerusalem, dwelling of peace.
XVII “present” = paristemi. From para (from beside, by) + histemi (to stand, place, set up, establish, stand ready, stand firm, be steadfast). This is literally to place by stand. It can mean to present, exhibit, appear, bring, stand by, or prove. It can also mean to be ready, to assist, to yield, or to commend.
XVIII “Lord” = Kurios. From kuros (authority, supremacy). This is a respectful address meaning master or sir. It refers to one who has control or power greater than one’s own. So, it was also applied to God and Jesus as Master or Lord.
23 (as it is writtenXIX in the law of the Lord, “EveryXX firstbornXXI maleXXII
XIX “written” = grapho. This is to write or describe. It is where the word “graphic” comes from.
XX “every” = pas. This is all or every.
XXI “firstborn” = diaoigo + metra. Literally, “opening a womb.” Diaoigo is 8x in NT. From dia (through, because of, across, thoroughly) + anoigo (to open or open up in a literal or figurative sense; to speak freely); {from ana (up, back, again, among, between, anew) + oigo (to open)}. This is to open fully. It can mean to open the womb as a firstborn does or figuratively to explain or expound. Metra is 2x in NT. From meter (mother literally or figuratively). This is the womb.
XXII “male” = arren. 9x in NT. From arsen (male, man) OR perhaps from airo (raise, take up, lift, remove). This is male or man.
shall be designatedXXIII as holyXXIV to the Lord”), 24 and they offeredXXV a sacrificeXXVI
XXIII “designated” = kaleo. Same as “called” in v21. See note V above.
XXIV “holy” = hagios. From hagnos (holy, sacred, pure ethically, ritually, or ceremonially; prepared for worship, chaste, unadulterated, pure to the core; undefiled by sin; figurative for innocent, modest, perfect). God is totally different from humanity and thus set apart. That which is consecrated to worship God (elements of worship) or to serve God (as the saints) are holy because they are now set apart for God’s purposes. Holy because important to God. This is sacred physically, pure. It can be morally blameless or ceremonially consecrated.
XXV “offered” = didomi. To give, offer, place, bestow, deliver. This is give in a literal or figurative sense.
XXVI “sacrifice” = thusia. From thuo (to breathe violently, seethe, rage; properly, to rush as breathing heavy; so smoke as in offering an animal sacrifice by fire; by extension, killing or slaying in general). This is a sacrifice or offering. It can refer to the act of sacrifice or the thig being sacrificed. Also, this is sacrifice in a literal or figurative sense.
according to what is statedXXVII in the law of the Lord, “a pairXXVIII of turtledovesXXIX or twoXXX youngXXXI pigeons.”XXXII
XXVII “stated” = ereo. Perhaps from rheo (to say, speak of, command). This is to say, tell, speak, mean, command.
XXVIII “pair” = zeugos. 2x in NT. From the same as zugos (yoke, scales; figuratively, a burden or something linking two people to work in tandem); from zeugnumi (to yoke or join). This is yoke, couple, pair; tea of oxen, group of tied together birds.
XXIX “turtledoves” = trugon. 1x in NT. From truzo (to murmur or coo); akin to trizo (to grate, gnash teeth, creak, squeak). This is a turtledove.
XXX “two” = duo. This is two or both.
XXXI “young” = neossos. 1x in NT. Related to nossos (young, young bird); from neos (young, new, youth, person). This is a nestling or a young one.
XXXII “pigeons” = peristera. 10x in NT. This is dove or pigeon.
25 NowXXXIII there wasXXXIV a manXXXV in JerusalemXXXVI
XXXIII {untranslated} = idou. From eido (to be aware, see, know, remember, appreciate). This is see! Lo! Behold! Look! Used to express surprise and or draw attention to the statement.
XXXIV “was” = eimi. This is to be, exist.
XXXV “man” = anthropos. Probably from aner (man, male, husband) + ops (eye, face); {from optanomai (to appear, be seen); perhaps from horao (become, seem, appear)}. This is human, humankind. Used for all genders.
XXXVI “Jerusalem” = Ierousalem. Related to “Jerusalem” in v22. Same as Hebrew Yerushalaim. See note XVI above.
whose nameXXXVII was Simeon;XXXVIII this manXXXIX was righteousXL
XXXVII “name” = onoma. Same as “called” in v21. See note V above.
XXXVIII “Simeon” = Sumeon. 7x in NT. From Hebrew Shimon (Simon – Jacob’s son and his tribe); from shama (to hear, often implying attention and obedience). This is Simeon, Symeon, or Simon. It is a personal name as well as the tribe Simeon. It means “he who hears.”
XXXIX “man” = anthropos. Same as “man” in v25. See note XXXV above.
XL “righteous” = dikaios. From dike (the principle of justice; that which is right in a way that is very clear; a decision or the execution of that decision; originally, this word was for custom or usage; evolved to include the process of law, judicial hearing, execution of sentence, penalty, and even vengeance; more commonly, it refers to what is right); may be from deiknumi (to show, point out, exhibit; figurative for teach, demonstrate, make known). This is correct, righteous, just, or a righteous person. It implies innocent or conforming to God’s standard of justice.
and devout,XLI looking forward toXLII the consolationXLIII
XLI “devout” = eulabes. Related to “conceived” in v21. 4x in NT. From eu (good, well, well done, rightly) + lambano (see note IX above). This is literally handling well or grasping what is good. So, cautious or circumspect. By extension, it refers to devout, pious, or God fearing
XLII “looking forward to” = prosdechomai. 14x in NT. From pros (at, to, toward, with) + dechomai (to warmly receive, be ready for what is offered, take, accept, or welcome; to receive in a literal or figurative sense). This is to receive, welcome, expect, accept. It is reception with a warm, personal welcome or active waiting. It can also mean endurance or patience.
XLIII “consolation” = paraklesis. Related to “called” in v21. From parakaleo (to call to, summon, invite, request, or beg; to exhort or admonish; to encourage, comfort, or console; has legal overtones and is used of one’s advocate in a courtroom); {from para (beside, by, in the presence of) + kaleo (see note V above)}. This is calling someone for help, a personal exhortation, comfort, encouragement, joy, entreaty, urging. This word comes from a legal setting – as bringing evidence to advocate for another in court. This word is related to the word “Advocate” or paraclete used for the Holy Spirit.
of Israel,XLIV and the Holy SpiritXLV restedXLVI on him.
XLIV “Israel” = Israel. From Hebrew Yisrael (God strives or one who strives with God; new name for Jacob and for his offspring); {from sarah (to persist, exert oneself, contend, persevere, wrestle, prevail) + El (God or god)}. This is Israel the people and the land.
XLV “Spirit” = pneuma. From pneo (to blow, breathe, breathe hard). This is wind, breath, or ghost. A breeze or a blast or air, a breath. Figuratively used for a spirit, the human soul or part of us that is rational. It is also used supernaturally for angels, demons, God, and the Holy Spirit. This is where pneumonia comes from.
XLVI “rested” = eimi. Same as “was” in v25. See note XXXIV above.
26 It had been revealedXLVII to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not seeXLVIII deathXLIX before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah.L
XLVII “revealed” = chrematizo. 9x in NT– including Matthew 2:12 when the wise men were warned in a dream not to return to Herod. 9x in NT. From chrema (something one uses or needs; money, possessions, wealth); from chraomai (to use, make use of, give what is needed, act in a specific way, request); perhaps from cheir (hand in a literal sense; figuratively, the means a person uses to accomplish things so it can mean power, means, or instrument); perhaps from the base of cheimon (winter, storm – winter as the rainy season); from chasma (chasm, gulf); from chasko (to yawn). This is to conduct business, instruct, warn, reveal, to utter an oracle, be warned by God.
XLVIII “see” = horao. Related to “man” in v25. See note XXXV above.
XLIX “death” = thanatos. From thnesko (to die, be dead). This is death, whether literal or spiritual. It can also refer to something that is fatal.
L “Messiah” = Christos. From chrio (consecrate by anointing with oil; often done for prophets, priests, or kings). Literally, the anointed one, Christ. The Greek word for Messiah.
27 Guided by the Spirit, Simeon cameLI into the temple,LII and when the parentsLIII brought inLIV the childLV Jesus
LI “came” = erchomai. This is to come or go.
LII “temple” = hieron. From hieros (sacred, something sacred, temple, holy, set apart; something consecrated to a god). This is the word for temple.
LIII “parents” = goneus. From ginomai (to come into being, to happen, become, be born; to emerge from one state or condition to another; this is coming into being with the sense of movement or growth). This is a parent or a father.
LIV “brought in” = eisago. Related to “angel” in v21 & “brought” in v22. 11x in NT– 3x in Luke, 1x in John, 6x in Acts, & 1x in Hebrews. From eis (to, into, for, among) + ago (see note VIII above). This is to bring in, lead in, or introduce in a literal or figurative sense.
LV “child” = paidion. From pais (child, youth, servant, slave); perhaps from paio (to strike or sting). This is a child as one who is still being educated or trained. Perhaps one seven years old or younger. Used figuratively for an immature Christian.
to doLVI for him what was customaryLVII under the law, 28 Simeon tookLVIII him in his armsLIX
LVI “do” = poieo. This is to make, do, act, construct, abide, or cause.
LVII “was customary” = ethizo. 1x in NT. From ethos (custom habit, rite – also, doing something that the law requires; can be an unwritten custom, acting in accordance with tradition); from etho (custom, what is customary). This is custom or customary.
LVIII “took” = dechomai. Related to “looking forward to” in v25. See note XLII above.
LIX “arms” = agkale. 1x in NT. From agkos (a bend, ache). This is an arm, particularly one that has become bent or curved to pick up a weight.
and praisedLX God,LXI saying,LXII
LX “praised” = eulogeo. Related to “devout” in v25. From eu (see note XLI above) + logos (word, statement, speech, analogy; a word that carries an idea or expresses a thought, a saying; a person with a message or reasoning laid out in words; by implication, a topic, line of reasoning, or a motive; can be used for a divine utterance or as Word – Christ); {from lego (to speak, tell, mention)}. Properly, this is speaking well of – speaking so that the other is benefited. It can mean praise, bless, thank, or call for a blessing. This is where “eulogy” comes from.
LXI “God” = Theos. From Proto-Indo-European origins, meaning do, put, place. This is God or a god in general.
LXII “saying” = eiron. This is to speak say, answer, command.
29 “Master,LXIII now you are dismissingLXIV your servantLXV in peace,LXVI
LXIII “Master” = despotes. Related to “servant” in v29. 10x in NT. Perhaps from deo (see note LXV below). This is lord, master, despot, sovereign Lord. It is an authority who has unrestricted power and jurisdiction.
LXIV “dismissing” = apoluo. From apo (from, away from) + luo (to loose, release, untie; figuratively, to break, destroy, or annul; releasing what had been withheld). This is letting go, setting free, or releasing. So, it can be to discharge, dismiss, divorce, pardon, or set at liberty.
LXV “servant” = doulos. Perhaps from deo (to tie, bind, fasten, impel, compel; to declare something against the law or prohibited). This is used for a servant or for a slave, enslaved. It refers to someone who belongs to someone else. But, it could be voluntary (choosing to be enslaved to pay off debt) or involuntary (captured in war and enslaved). It is used as a metaphor for serving Christ. Slavery was not inherited (i.e. the children of slaves were not assumed to be slaves) and slaves could buy their way to freedom. Slavery was generally on a contractual basis (that is for the duration of how long it took you to pay your debt and/or save up enough money to buy your freedom).
LXVI “peace” = eirene. Perhaps from eiro (to join, tie together to form a whole). This is one, peace, quietness, rest, peace of mind, harmony. Peace was a common farewell among Jews (i.e. shalom) and this well-wishing included a blessing of health and wholeness for the individual. This word also indicates wholeness and well-being – when everything that is essential is joined together properly. This is peace literally or figuratively. By implication, it is prosperity (but not in the sense of excessive wealth. Prosperity would have meant having enough from day to day.)
according to your word,LXVII
30 for my eyesLXVIII have seen your salvation,LXIX
LXVII “word” = rhema. Related to “stated” in v24. From rheo (see note XXVII above). This is word, which implies a matter or thing spoken, a command, report, promise, thing, or business. Often used for narration, commands, or disputes.
LXVIII “eyes” = ophthalmos. Related to “man” in v25 & “see” in v26. From optanomai (see note XXXV above). This is eye or sight. It is used figuratively for the mind’s eye, a vision, or for envy.
LXIX “salvation” = soterios. 5x in NT. From soter (a savior, deliverer); from sozo (to save, heal, preserve, or rescue; taking someone from danger to safety; delivering or protecting literally or figuratively); from sos (safe, rescued, well). This is salvation, defender, something or someone saving.
31 which you have preparedLXX in the presenceLXXI of allLXXII peoples,LXXIII
LXX “prepared” = hetoimazo. From hetoimos (make ready, be ready because of being prepared, standing by, adjusted; ready to meet some opportunity or challenge). This is to prepare or provide.
LXXI “presence” = prosopon. Related to “man” in v25 & “see” in v26 & “eyes” in v30. From pros (at, towards, with) + ops (eye, face); {from optanomai (see note XXXV above)}. This is the face, surface, or front. It can imply presence more generally.
LXXII “all” = pas. Same as every” in v23. See note XX above.
LXXIII “peoples” = laos. This is the people or crowd – often used for the chosen people. This is where the word “laity” comes from.
32 a lightLXXIV for revelationLXXV to the gentilesLXXVI
and for gloryLXXVII to your people Israel.”
LXXIV “light” = phos. From phao (to shine or make visible, especially with rays of light); from the same as phaino (to bring light, cause to appear, shine, become visible or clear). This is light, a source of light, fire, or radiance. This is light with specific reference to what it reveals. It is luminousness whether natural or artificial, abstract or concrete, literal or figurative.
LXXV “revelation” = apokalupsis. 18x in NT. From apokalupto (properly to uncover; revealing something that was hidden or obstructed; particularly refers to revealing the essence of something; to make plain or manifest); {from apo (from, away from) + kalupto (to cover, hide, conceal; figuratively, to keep hidden or secret) {related to kalube (hut, cabin)}. This is uncovering, unveiling, appearing, manifestation, or revelation. This is where the word “apocalypse” comes from.
LXXVI “gentiles” = ethnos. Related to “was customary” in v27. Probably from etho (see note LVII above). This is people who are united by having similar customs or culture. Generally, it is used to refer to Gentiles. This is a tribe, race, nation, or Gentiles in general. This is where the term “ethnicity” comes from.
LXXVII “glory” = doxa. From dokeo (to have an opinion, seem, appear, suppose; a personal judgment; to think); from dokos (opinion). This is literally something that evokes a good opinion – something that connects to our understanding of intrinsic worth. The ultimate expression of this is, of course, God and God’s manifestation. So, this is opinion, honor, and dignity, but also praise, glory, renown, and worship.
33 And the child’s fatherLXXVIII and motherLXXIX were amazedLXXX at what was being saidLXXXI about him.
LXXVIII “father” = pater. This is father in a literal or figurative sense. Could be elder, senior, ancestor, originator, or patriarch.
LXXIX “mother” = meter. Related to “firstborn” in v23. See note XXI above.
LXXX “amazed” = thaumazo. From thauma (a wonder or marvel; used abstractly for wonderment or amazement; something that evokes emotional astonishment); may be from theaomai (to behold, look upon, see, contemplate, visit); from thaomai (to gaze at a spectacle; to look at or contemplate as a spectator; to interpret something in efforts to grasp its significance). This is to marvel, wonder, or admire. To be amazed out of one’s senses or be awestruck. Being astonished and starting to contemplate what was beheld. This root is where the word “theatre” comes from.
LXXXI “said” = laleo. From lalos (talkative). This is to talk, say, or preach.
34 Then Simeon blessedLXXXII them and saidLXXXIII to his mother Mary,LXXXIV “LXXXVThis child is destinedLXXXVI for the fallingLXXXVII
LXXXII “blessed” = eulogeo. Same as “praised” in v28. See note LX above.
LXXXIII “said” = eiron. Same as “saying” in v28. See note LXII above.
LXXXIV “Mary” = Maria. From Hebrew Miryam (Aaron and Moses’s sister); from marah (to be contentious, rebellious, bitter, provoking, disobedient; to be or make bitter or unpleasant; figuratively, to rebel or resist; causatively to provoke). This is Miriam or Mary.
LXXXV {untranslated} = idou. Same as {untranslated} in v25. See note XXXIII above.
LXXXVI “destined” = keimai. This is to lie, recline, be set, appointed, destined. It is to lie down literally or figuratively.
LXXXVII “falling” = ptosis. 2x in NT. – here and in the Parable of the wise and foolish builders, “great was its fall” in Matthew 7:27. From pipto (to fall literally or figuratively). This is a falling or ruin.
and the risingLXXXVIII of manyLXXXIX in Israel and to be a signXC that will be opposedXCI
LXXXVIII “rising” = anastasis. Related to “present” in v22. From anistemi (to raise up, rise, appear; to stand up literally or figuratively. Can also mean to resurrect); from ana (upwards, up, again, back, anew) + histemi (see note XVII above). This is literally standing up or standing again. It is used figuratively for recovering a spiritual truth. It can be raising up, rising, or resurrection.
LXXXIX “many” = polus. This is much, often, plenteous – a large number or a great extent.
XC “sign” = semeion. From the same as semaino (to give a sign, signify, indicate, make known); from sema (a sign or mark). It is literally a sign of any kind. It also refers to a sign given by God to confirm or authenticate a message or prophecy. It is not necessarily miraculous, but it can be. The Gospel of John generally uses this word instead of miracle.
XCI “opposed” = antilego. Related to “praised” in v28. 11x in NT. From anti (opposite, instead of, against) + lego (see note LX above). This is literally to speak against – so, to contradict, oppose, resist. It is being argumentative, especially with a hostile bent through opposition. It can indicate attempts to thwart.
35 so that the innerXCII thoughtsXCIII of many will be revealedXCIV—
XCII “inner” = kardia. Literally the heart, but figuratively mind, character, inner self, will, intention, thoughts, feelings. Also, the center of something. The word heart is only used figuratively in the Old and New Testaments. This is where “cardiac” comes from.
XCIII “thoughts” = dialogismos. Related to “praised” in v28 & “opposed” in v34. 14x in NT. From dialogizomai (to consider, have a back and forth debate with an uncertain conclusion; multiple confused minds reinforcing a faulty conclusion); {from dia (through, because of, across, thoroughly) + logizmai (to compute or reckon up, to count; figuratively, it is coming to a conclusion or decision using logic; taking an inventory in a literal or figurative sense); {from logos (see note LX above)}. This is reasoning, plotting, argument, discussion that reinforces faulty reasoning, debate.
XCIV “revealed” = apokalupto. Related to “revelation” in v32. From apo (from, away from) + kalupto (see note LXXV above). This is properly to uncover so it means revealing something that was hidden or obstructed. It particularly refers to revealing the essence of something. This is to make plain or manifest. This is the root verb that “apocalypse” comes from.
and a swordXCV will pierceXCVI your own soul,XCVII too.”
XCV “sword” = rhomphaia. 7x in NT. – 1x Simeon’s words to Mary “a sword will pierce your own soul,” 6x in the book of Revelation. Probably of foreign origin. This refers to a Thracian long sword that could thrust and slash. It may have come from an Egyptian god. Figuratively, it refers to war or intense grief. Since the sword was so powerful, it can symbolize dominance.
XCVI “pierce” = dierchomai. Related to “came” in v27. From dia (through, across to the other side, thoroughly) + erchomai (see note LI above). This is to go through, come, depart, pierce, travel, traverse.
XCVII “soul” = psuche. From psucho (to breathe, blow). This is breath, the breath of life, the self, individual, soul. This is the word for that which makes a person unique – their identity, will, personality, affections. This isn’t the soul as the immortal part of us, but as our individuality. It is also not life as a general concept, but specific to people. This is where the words psyche and psychology come from.
36 There was also a prophet,XCVIII AnnaXCIX the daughterC of Phanuel,CI
XCVIII “prophet” = prophetis. Related to “light” in v32. 2x in NT– of Anna in Luke 2:36 and Jezebel in Revelation 2:20. From prophetes (prophet or poet; one who speaks with inspiration from God); {from pro (before, in front of, earlier than) + phemi (to declare, say, use contrasts in speaking to shed light on one point of view); {from phao (to shine or make visible, especially with rays of light) or phaino (see note LXXIV above)}}. This is a female prophet.
XCIX “Anna” = Hanna. 1x in NT. From Hebrew Channah (Channah, Hannah; “favored”); from chanan (beseech, show favor, be gracious; properly, to bend in kindness to someone with less status). This is Anna, meaning “favored.”
C “daughter” = thugater. This is daughter, a related female or one who lives with you.
CI “Phanuel” = Phanouel. Related to “Israel” in v25. 1x in NT. From Hebrew Penuel (Penuel, Peniel, “face of God; a place and proper name); {from panim (face in a literal or figurative sense; presence, anger, respect; can be used of God to indicate divine favor or presence); {from panah (to turn, face, appear)} + El (see note XLIV above)}. This is Phanuel, the Greek version of Penuel, meaning “face of God.”
of the tribeCII of Asher.CIII She was of a great age,CIV having livedCV
CII “tribe” = phule. From phuo (to produce, spring up, grow, germinate; perhaps originally meaning puff or blow). This is clan, tribe, lineage. It is those who descend from a shared ancestor.
CIII “Asher” = Aser. 2x in NT. From Hebrew Asher (Asher; “happy one”; one of Jacob’s children and the tribe of his descendants; may also be a city); from ashar (to go straight, lead, guide; to be level and so to be right, blessed, honest, happy). This is Asher, meaning “happy one.”
CIV “was of a great age” = probaino + en + hemera + polus. Literally, “was advanced in many days.” Probaino is 5x in NT. From pro (before, ahead, earlier than, above) + the same as basis (a step, pace, foot); {from baino (to walk, to go)}. This is to go forward literally or to advance in years. Hemera is the same as “days” in v21. See note II above. Polus is the same as “many” in v34. See note LXXXIX above.
CV “lived” = zao. This is to live literally or figuratively. It is used for life including the vitality of humans, plants, and animals – it is life physical and spiritual and life everlasting.
with her husbandCVI sevenCVII yearsCVIII after her marriage,CIX
CVI “husband” = aner. Related to “man” in v25. See note XXXV above.
CVII “seven” = hepta. This is seven or seventh. Figuratively, seven is the number of completeness or perfection.
CVIII “years” = etos. This is year, age.
CIX “marriage” = parthenia. 1x in NT. From parthenos (virgin, chaste, unmarried; can refer to a woman past puberty who is not yet married, since she was presumed to be a virgin). This is maidenhood or virginity.
37 then as a widowCX to the ageCXI of eightyCXII-four.CXIII
CX “widow” = chera. Perhaps related to “revealed” in v26. Perhaps from the base of chasma (see note XLVII above). This is widow literally or figuratively.
CXI “age” = etos. Same as “years” in v36. See note CVIII above.
CXII “eighty” = ogdoekonta. Related to “eight” in v21. 2x in NT. From ogdoos (the eighth); {from okto (see note I above)} + deka (ten; -teen). This is eighty.
CXIII “four” = tessares. This is four – used figuratively for total coverage.
She never leftCXIV the temple but worshipedCXV there with fastingCXVI
CXIV “left” = aphistemi. Related to “present” in v22 & “rising” in v34. 14x in NT. From apo (from, away from) + histemi (see note XVII above). This is to remove, repel, refrain, depart from, foment a revolt, repel.
CXV “worshiped” = latreuo. From latris (a hired servant; someone who is qualified to perform a technical task). Properly, this is giving good, technical service because qualified or equipped to do so. It can be serve, minister, worship, or give homage.
CXVI “fasting” = nesteia. 6x in NT. From nesteuo (to fast, not eat food, to make a religious fast); from nestis (hungry, fasting, fasting for religious reasons); {from ne (not) + the same as esthio (to eat or figuratively to devour or consume like rust); {akin to edo (to eat)}}. This is fasting, hunger. Can be used specifically for the fast done on the Day of Atonement.
and prayerCXVII nightCXVIII and day. 38 At that momentCXIX she cameCXX
CXVII “prayer” = deesis. Related to “servant” and “Master” in v29. 18x in NT. From deomai (having an urgent need because one is missing or needing something so it is an earnest appeal or pressing request); from deo (see note LXV above). This is a request coming from a deep personal need or want. So, it is supplication or prayer.
CXVIII “night” = nux. This is night in a literal or figurative sense.
CXIX “moment” = hora. This is a set time or period, an hour, instant, or season. This is where the word “hour” comes from.
CXX “came” = ephistemi. Related to “present” in v22 & “rising” in v34 & “left” in v37. From epi (on, upon, what is fitting) + histemi (see note XVII above). This is to stand upon, happen, be present. Usually, it is used in a literal sense.
and began to praiseCXXI God and to speakCXXII about the childCXXIII to all who were looking forCXXIV the redemptionCXXV of Jerusalem.
CXXI “praise” = anthomologeomai. Related to “praised” in v28 & “opposed” in v34 & “thoughts” in v35. 1x in NT. From anti (opposite, instead of, against) + homologeo (to agree, speak the same, declare, promise, praise, celebrate; to align with, express the same conclusion, endorse); {from homologos (of one mind); {from homos (the same) + lego (see note LX above)}}. This is to confess, give thanks to, fully acknowledge, give praise.
CXXII “speak” = laleo. Same as “said” in v33. See note LXXXI above.
CXXIII “child” = autos. Literally, “him.”
CXXIV “looking for” = prosdechomai. Same as “looking forward to” in v25. See note XLII above.
CXXV “redemption” = lutrosis. Related to “dismissing” in v29. 3x in NT. From lutroo (to redeem, liberate, release because ransom was paid in full; figuratively, returning something or someone to their rightful owner);from lutron (ransom, the money used to free slaves; also a sacrifice of expiation; figurative for atonement); from luo (see note LXIV above). This is ransoming, release, liberation, or redemption It is paying to free someone from imprisonment because of debt or from slavery more generally. Used figuratively for spiritual redemption.
Image credit: “The Presentation in the Temple” by Frank Wesley.