Luke 2:36

Luke 2:36, in plain English

There was also a very old prophetess named Anna. She had been married for seven years before her husband died, and she had served God faithfully ever since.

Why it's here

Anna is the second witness to confirm who Jesus is. Together, Simeon and Anna—an old man and an old woman—represent the faithful remnant of Israel.

Who's speaking

Luke introduces Anna, one of the unsung heroes of the Christmas story.

Where it sits in the story

Anna has spent most of her life as a widow, but she never let grief define her. Instead, she poured herself into worship and prayer, and God rewarded her faithfulness beyond anything she could imagine.

The scholarly reading

Luke introduces Anna, a prophetess (prophētis) from the tribe of Asher, daughter of Phanuel. She is described as very old, having been married seven years before becoming a widow.

Language and setting

Anna's tribal identity (Asher) connects her to the northern tribes, suggesting God's salvation encompasses all Israel. Her prophetic role places her alongside Miriam, Deborah, and Huldah.

Voice

Luke introduces the second prophetic witness to the Christ child.

Significance

After Simeon, Luke introduces Anna—an elderly prophetess who has devoted her entire widowhood to prayer and worship at the temple. She represents the faithful women of Israel.

34Then Simeon blessed them and said to His mother Mary: “Behold, this Child is appointed to cause the rise and fall of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against,

35so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed— and a sword will pierce your soul as well.”

36There was also a prophetess named Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher, who was well along in years. She had been married for seven years,

37and then was a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the temple, but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying.

38Coming forward at that moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the Child to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem.

Read all of Luke 2 — The most powerful person in history arrives as the most vulnerable — a baby in a feeding trough. The announcement goes to shepherds.