Topical Bible: Praise: Simeon

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Introduction

Simeon, a significant figure in the Bible, is often associated with themes of praise and prophecy. His account is primarily found in the Gospel of Luke, where he is depicted as a righteous and devout man who eagerly awaited the consolation of Israel. Simeon's encounter with the infant Jesus in the temple is a moment of profound praise and prophetic revelation.

Biblical Account

The account of Simeon is recorded in Luke 2:25-35. Simeon is described as a man in Jerusalem who was "righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him" (Luke 2:25). This description highlights his piety and the special role he played in recognizing Jesus as the Messiah.

The Prophetic Praise

Simeon's encounter with Jesus is marked by a spontaneous outburst of praise and prophecy. When Mary and Joseph brought Jesus to the temple to perform the customary rites, Simeon took the child in his arms and blessed God, saying:

"Now, Lord, You let Your servant depart in peace, according to Your word. For my eyes have seen Your salvation, which You have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of Your people Israel" (Luke 2:29-32).

This passage, often referred to as the "Nunc Dimittis," is a profound expression of praise. Simeon acknowledges the fulfillment of God's promise and recognizes Jesus as the salvation prepared for all people. His words reflect the universal scope of Christ's mission, emphasizing both revelation to the Gentiles and glory for Israel.

Simeon's Prophecy to Mary

Following his praise, Simeon blesses Mary and Joseph and delivers a prophetic message to Mary. He foretells the impact Jesus will have on Israel and the personal sorrow Mary will experience:

"Behold, this Child is appointed for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed—and a sword will pierce your own soul as well" (Luke 2:34-35).

This prophecy underscores the dual nature of Jesus' mission, bringing both division and revelation. Simeon's words foreshadow the opposition Jesus will face and the deep emotional pain Mary will endure, particularly at the crucifixion.

Theological Significance

Simeon's praise and prophecy hold significant theological implications. His recognition of Jesus as the Messiah highlights the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and God's faithfulness to His promises. Simeon's declaration of Jesus as a light to the Gentiles underscores the inclusivity of the Gospel, affirming that salvation through Christ is available to all nations.

Furthermore, Simeon's role as a witness to Jesus' identity emphasizes the work of the Holy Spirit in revealing divine truth. His life exemplifies the virtues of patience, faith, and devotion, serving as a model for believers who await the fulfillment of God's promises.

Conclusion

Simeon's encounter with Jesus in the temple is a moment of profound praise and prophetic insight. His recognition of Jesus as the Messiah and his declaration of God's salvation reflect the fulfillment of divine promises and the universal scope of Christ's mission. Through his words and actions, Simeon exemplifies a life of faith and devotion, offering a timeless example of praise and prophetic witness.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Luke 2:28
Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

What Thanks and Praise to Thee we Owe
... Uplifts the strains that never cease,. The bless??d Virgin's hymn of praise,. The
aged Simeon's words of peace. O happy saint! whose sacred page,. ...
/.../holy days st luke 292.htm

We Add Luther's Version of the Song of Simeon: --
... We add Luther's version of the Song of Simeon:". NUNC DIMITTIS. [Luke 2:29-33]. ... While
His Israel's joy He is,. His people's glory, praise, and bliss. Footnotes: ...
/.../winkworth/christian singers of germany/we add luthers version of.htm

Martyrdom of the Holy Confessors Shamuna, Guria, and Habib, from ...
... Martyrdom of the Holy Confessors Shamuna, Guria, and Habib, from Simeon Metaphrastes ...
Thus did he utter the praise of the Umpire of the strife; and a scribe who ...
/.../unknown/the decretals/ancient syriac documents martyrdom of 2.htm

Oration Concerning Simeon and Anna
... VI. Hence the aged Simeon, putting off the weakness of the flesh, and putting on
the ... 3037] Wherefore, O Lord my God, I will glorify Thee, I will praise Thy name ...
/.../the writings of methodius fragments/oration concerning simeon and anna.htm

The Purification of the virgin and the Presentation in the Temple
... representative, the example, friend, and adviser of such, was it granted as prophetess
to recognise Him, Whose Advent had been the burden of Simeon's praise. ...
/.../the life and times of jesus the messiah/chapter vii the purification of.htm

Christian Singers of Germany
... We add Luther's version of the Song of Simeon:--. Justus Jonas. PSALM CXXIV. Paul
Eber. ... Bohemian Brethren. AN ANTIPHON ON THE PRAISE OF GOD. The next is a. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/winkworth/christian singers of germany/

Introduction
... The Canon is the most elaborate form into which the praise of the ... The Three Children
(first part, and second part), Mary (Magnificat), Simeon (Nunc dimittis). ...
//christianbookshelf.org/brownlie/hymns of the russian church/introduction.htm

Letter xvi to Rainald, Abbot of Foigny
... Bernard declares to him how little he loves praise; that the yoke of Christ is light;
that ... 20] This weight sustained the very arms of the aged Simeon, in which ...
/.../letter xvi to rainald abbot.htm

Oration on the Palms.
... beforehand; saying, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast Thou perfected
praise. ... V. Once, indeed, the aged Simeon met the Saviour [3151] and received in ...
/.../methodius/the writings of methodius fragments/oration on the palms.htm

Introduction.
... Simeon, and the celestial ascriptions and hallelujahs heard by St. John in his Patmos
dream. For what we know of the first formulated human prayer and praise ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/brown/the story of the hymns and tunes/introduction.htm