Topical Encyclopedia Anna, a prophetess mentioned in the New Testament, is a remarkable figure known for her devout religious zeal and unwavering dedication to God. Her account is briefly recounted in the Gospel of Luke, where she is presented as a model of piety and faithfulness.Biblical Account Anna's account is found in Luke 2:36-38. She is introduced as the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. The text highlights her advanced age and her long widowhood, stating, "She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, and then was a widow until she was eighty-four" (Luke 2:36-37). This detail underscores her lifelong commitment to God, as she chose to remain a widow and dedicate herself to worship and service in the temple. Devotion and Worship Anna's religious zeal is evident in her constant presence at the temple. The Gospel of Luke notes, "She never left the temple, but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying" (Luke 2:37). Her devotion is characterized by her continuous acts of worship, which include fasting and prayer. This lifestyle of devotion reflects her deep commitment to God and her anticipation of the redemption of Israel. Prophetic Role As a prophetess, Anna holds a unique position among the women of the Bible. Her prophetic gift is demonstrated when she encounters the infant Jesus during His presentation at the temple. Recognizing Him as the promised Messiah, Anna's response is immediate and filled with gratitude. Luke records, "Coming up at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem" (Luke 2:38). Her proclamation to those awaiting redemption highlights her role as a witness to the fulfillment of God's promises. Legacy and Significance Anna's life serves as an inspiring example of religious zeal and faithfulness. Her dedication to prayer, fasting, and worship, even in her advanced age, exemplifies a life wholly devoted to God. Her recognition of Jesus as the Messiah and her eagerness to share this revelation with others underscore her role as a faithful servant and a herald of the Good News. In the broader context of Scripture, Anna's account is a testament to the importance of perseverance in faith and the power of a life dedicated to God's service. Her example encourages believers to remain steadfast in their devotion, trusting in God's promises and eagerly anticipating His work in the world. Nave's Topical Index Luke 2:38And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise to the Lord, and spoke of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem. Nave's Topical Index Library The Historical Situation For that Also is no Foolish Question which is Wont to be Proposed. ... The Holy Family in Bethlehem after the Departure of the Kings. Place of Jesus in the History of the World. Truth Hidden when not Sought After. The Boy Hugh Introduction Paul Gerhardt and his Contemporaries. AD 1620-1680. Cpaul Gerhardt The Princesses of the Comneni The Sifting Time, 1743-1750. Resources Should wine or grape juice be used for communion? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Paul in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org How many times did Jesus cleanse the temple? Why did He cleanse the temple? | GotQuestions.org Zeal: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: David Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Elijah Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Israelites Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Jehoiada Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Jehu Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Josiah Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Moses and Levites Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Phinehas Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Samuel Religious Zeal without Knowledge Religious Zeal: Andrew and Philip Religious Zeal: Exemplified by Paul Religious Zeal: General Scriptures Concerning Religious Zeal: Paul and Barnabas Religious Zeal: Peter Rebuking Jesus Religious Zeal: The Healed Deaf-Mute Man Religious Zeal: The Restored Leper Religious Zeal: Two Blind Men Proclaiming the Miracle of Healing Zeal: Provokes Others to do Good Zeal: should be Exhibited for the Glory of God Zeal: should be Exhibited for the Welfare of Saints Zeal: should be Exhibited in Contending for the Faith Zeal: should be Exhibited in Desiring the Salvation of Others Zeal: should be Exhibited in Missionary Labours Zeal: should be Exhibited in Spirit Zeal: should be Exhibited in Well-Doing Zeal: should be Exhibited: Against Idolatry Zeal: Sometimes not According to Knowledge Zeal: Sometimes Wrongly Directed Zeal: Ungodly Men Sometimes Pretend To Related Terms |
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