Saint Simeon was a righteous and devout man in Jerusalem who awaited the consolation of Israel. According to the Gospel of Luke, the Holy Spirit had revealed to him that he would not die before seeing the Messiah. When Mary and Joseph brought the infant Jesus to the Temple, Simeon recognized Him as the promised Savior and took Him into his arms, praising God for the fulfillment of His promise (Luke 2:25–35).
Simeon’s prayer, known as the Nunc Dimittis (“Now dismiss”), expresses gratitude for having seen God’s salvation prepared for all peoples. He also foretold that Jesus would be a light to the Gentiles and the glory of Israel, and he warned Mary that a sword would pierce her soul, foreshadowing Christ’s Passion.
Simeon is remembered as a model of patience, faith, and hope, trusting in God’s promises and rejoicing when they were fulfilled.
Luke 2:25–35
Simeon recognizes the infant Jesus as the Messiah and prophesies concerning Him.
Luke 2:29–32
The Nunc Dimittis: “My eyes have seen your salvation.”
Isaiah 49:6
The Messiah is described as a light to the nations, echoed in Simeon’s prophecy.
Luke 2:34–35
Simeon foretells both Christ’s mission and Mary’s sorrow.
Illustration by: Colton Rompala